Livingston Student Wins 2024 New Jersey Middle School Essay Contest for Biomedical Research

LIVINGSTON, NJ — Rising Livingston High School (LHS) freshman Annika Raj, recently earned first place in the 2024 New Jersey Middle School Essay Contest, demonstrating her dedication, creativity, and understanding of the profound impact of biomedical research on our lives.

The NJ Middle School Essay Contest, organized by the Pennsylvania Society for Biomedical Research (PSBR), invites middle school students in grades six through eight to explore the connection between biomedical research, animal research, and their own lives, is a prestigious competition that recognizes young minds who can artfully demonstrate the significance of these fields.

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Raj’s essay, which can be read in its entirety BY CLICKING HERE, stood out among numerous entries, showcasing a superior grasp of the importance of biomedical research and the responsible use of animals in advancing medical science.

“When I moved from Singapore to New Jersey in seventh grade, I was searching for a way to channel my passion for biomedical research, sparked by summers spent exploring science documentaries and experiments at home,” said Raj. “I found the PSBR contest while looking for opportunities to delve deeper into my interests. Watching videos like those by Dr. Mike and the Amoeba Sisters further fueled my curiosity about how biomedical research impacts our lives.

“When my dadi (grandma) was diagnosed with dementia, it was heart-wrenching to watch her struggle. Seeing her condition made me want to learn more about the disease and its science. While looking for ways to understand dementia and its treatments, I stumbled upon the PSBR essay contest. It seemed the perfect opportunity to explore biomedical research and share my passion.”

In her award-winning essay, Raj delved into the critical role that biomedical research plays in the development of new treatments and therapies for both humans and animals. She highlighted the ethical considerations and the necessity for the humane treatment of animals in such research, emphasizing the commitment of the scientific community to the “3 R’s”—Reduction, Refinement and Replacement.

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Judges felt that her analysis and personal reflections made her essay a compelling read, earning her the top spot in the contest.

“Winning this contest made me feel incredibly proud and grateful,” said Raj. “It gave me a chance to understand more about how biomedical research can prevent illnesses and diseases. This experience has strengthened my love for science and my commitment to contributing to this field in the future. Knowing that my work was recognized motivates me to keep learning and make a difference in the lives of others.

“As I worked on my essay, I became more and more fascinated with the subject. I read about groundbreaking research from Measles to Tuberculosis. Each piece of information showed me how important biomedical research is and how it has truly changed lives. The process was challenging but rewarding, and it deepened my respect for the scientists who dedicate their lives to this work.”

This achievement is not only a personal triumph, but also a reflection of the importance of science education and the role of young students in shaping the future of biomedical research. Raj’s essay underscores the vital contributions that informed and compassionate individuals can make in advancing medical science while upholding ethical standards.

As a result of her outstanding accomplishment, Raj was invited to attend the PSBR Annual Awards Dinner held last month at the Hershey Lodge in Pennsylvania.

Raj, who considers herself a “global citizen,” having lived in India, Singapore and London before moving to Livingston, shared that this award-winning experience has strengthened her passion for science and her commitment to contributing to this field in the future.

While at HMS, Raj said her passion for science and biomedical research inspired her join HOSA, the Science National Honor Society and The Conrad Challenge at LHS.

She also joined the HMS chapter of Future Business Leaders (FBLA) after moving to the U.S. and helped increase active membership by 460% while serving on the board of directors.

In 2023, Raj placed first in the state and fourth nationally in the FBLA Marketing Mix Competition with Speedy-Buy, an app using Dijkstra's Algorithm.

She also took part in the 2024 Exploring Business Issues Competition, where she “proposed solutions for remote work using quantum entanglement and NLP” and secured first place in the state and seventh place nationally.

As she prepares for her first year of high school, Raj said she is “excited about the opportunities and teachers at LHS” and is “ready to start [her] high school journey.”

To read Raj’s winning essay, CLICK HERE.

To learn more about PSBR, a non-profit science education organization whose mission is to educate the public about the essential role of biomedical research and the responsible use of animals in scientific studies, CLICK HERE.

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