Valley Stream Central High School student researcher Marilyn Sanchez-Zepeda earned honorable mention in round two of the 2023 New York State Science and Engineering Fair (NYSSEF). Marilyn earned the accolade for her research entitled Plant Growth Promoting Genes in Bacillus Altitudinis that Mitigates Drought Stress in Agriculture.
Her research looked into the ways certain bacteria could be used to promote plant growth despite drought conditions. “I could not be prouder,” said her research advisor Krystyna Zajac. “Marilyn’s achievement is a reflection of not only her hard work and dedication, but also of her personal character.”

Marilyn Sanchez-Zepeda with her research advisor Krystyna Zajac.