Thirty-eight California students earned a spot in the competition that tackles topics including medicine, the environment and technology.

Li’s research topic was the Effects of Baycrete Texture and Tidal Elevation on the Recruitment of Ostrea Lurida and Amphibalanus Amphitrite in San Diego Bay.

Each winner will receive a $2,000 award and their school will also receive $2,000 to use for STEM-related activities.

Science teacher Garrett Lim submitted Li’s exceptional work for the honor.

“I am most proud that Mr. Lim gets some money for classroom supplies because of his dedication to all his students, even outside of the classroom,” the 17-year-old commented. “It has meant so much to me!”

Her STEM research took part through the Southern California Academy of Sciences. “I would also like to thank CSUF professor Dr. Danielle Zacherl and mentor Bryce Perog for supporting me for almost three years in their laboratory, providing the opportunity to do research, and learn from their experiences,” she added.

More than 1,700 high school seniors entered Regeneron’s research competition and were judged on research skills, commitment to academics, innovative thinking and promise as scientist.

The winners are from 45 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and 10 foreign countries.

The goal of the Science Talent Search, held since 1942, is to identify, inspire and engage the nation’s most promising young scientists to solve society’s most urgent challenges.

Previous competitors have gone on to win Nobel Prizes and other distinguished honors.

A group of top 40 finalists to be announced will compete for more than $1.8 million in awards, including the top prize of $250,000, provided by Regeneron.