Connor Hill, a 17-year-old from Port Matilda, Pennsylvania, has won the top $250,000 prize at the 2026 Regeneron Science Talent Search. His project involved creating a custom computer algorithm to classify a rare class of geometric shapes known as noble polyhedra, solving a long-standing problem in geometry. Noble polyhedra are three-dimensional shapes with high symmetry, where every face is the same shape and every vertex has the same arrangement of faces. Unlike simple examples like cubes, noble polyhedra can include complex and self-intersecting shapes, making their classification challenging. Before Hill's work, mathematicians had identified two infinite families of these shapes but lacked a complete list of individual, isolated examples. By 2020, only 61 isolated examples were confirmed, with the possibility of many more due to complex symmetry combinations. Hill's approach involved translating the geometric problem into algebraic equations, including polynomials, allowing his computer program to systematically examine all possible arrangements. This method reduced the problem to a finite set of possibilities that could be checked exhaustively. According to the Society for Science 2026 media kit, Hill's program identified exactly 146 isolated noble polyhedra in addition to the two known infinite families. Hill believes his method could be applied to other areas of science and mathematics, such as studying compound polyhedral structures and geometric networks. In discussions with Dr. Henry Wei of Regeneron, Hill explained that by framing the problem in a different mathematical context, he could narrow it down to a solvable set. Hill's interest in noble polyhedra stemmed from an online geometry community where the classification challenge was discussed. He emphasized the role of mathematics in formalizing scientific concepts and breaking down complex problems into manageable parts, highlighting its potential in fields like biomedical research. The 2026 Regeneron Science Talent Search awarded over $1.8 million to 40 finalists. Edward Kang from New Jersey won second place with a $175,000 prize for developing an AI tool to screen for autism and ADHD using retinal scans. Iris Shen from Texas took third place with a $150,000 prize for studying blood cancer treatments using clams as a model. Maya Ajmera, President of Society for Science, praised the finalists for their vision and perseverance. Regeneron's Dr. George D. Yancopoulos, a 1976 competition winner, congratulated the winners, emphasizing their crucial role in scientific progress. Regeneron extended its title sponsorship through 2036 and pledged $150 million for STEM programs. Hill plans to attend MIT in the fall to continue studying computational mathematics.
