65th Annual STS (2005-2006)
Finalists
Kiran Reddy Pendri

CONNECTICUT
Kiran Reddy Pendri, 17, of South Glastonbury, synthesized a new type of organic compound, a novel macrocyclic alkene dithiolactone for his Intel Science Talent Search project in chemistry. Building on recent Nobel Prize-winning research in chemistry, Kiran's efforts utilize macrocyclization, which is a Ring-Closing Olefin Metathesis reaction that allows for the creation of a mid-sized molecular ring that serves as a precursor for the synthesis of large-ring alkenes. He believes his research could contribute to manufacturing chemicals and pharmaceuticals in an efficient and environmentally friendly way. Kiran is the son of Drs. Yadagiri and Annapurna Pendri. He attends Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford, where he is coxswain of the varsity crew, serves on the judicial committee, and is a member of the Choate Indian Association and the varsity math team. A member of an investment club, Kiran has been investing since he was 10 years old. The recipient of many English, math and science honors, he achieved perfect SAT scores in critical reading, math and writing. Kiran hopes to study chemistry at Harvard or Princeton to prepare for a career in scientific research in industry or academia.