To add to our understanding of neurodivergence and the growing field of neurodivergence research, members of Project Vermilion have conducted and presented studies in psychology, neurology, and other STEM fields at several competitions. We offer mentoring and guidance for other highschoolers interested in these fields!
The Project Vermilion Ingenuity Awards
Recognizing three middle or high-school researchers at the Dr. Nelson Ying Orange County Science Exposition with $500 awards for approaching scientific problems with exceptional creativity, we hope to inspire the next generation of researchers to think outside of the box. Open to students in any category, judging focuses primarily on the student’s ideas and scientific reasoning. Speaking confidence, eye contact, verbal fluency, nervousness, poster aesthetics, and presentation style do not influence a student’s score. We want to recognize that students who think or communicate differently deserve an equal opportunity to have their ideas recognized!
Over 50% of autistic children experience significant motor function challenges. Havish Uppada applied sensor and control-systems expertise to engineer a neuroadaptive wearable device. The device uses real-time electromyography (EMG) sensing to detect excessive muscle activation during grip tasks, then delivers vibrotactile feedback so the user can consciously correct their grip in the moment.
AI Model That Modifies Environmental Audio to Prevent Overstimulation Using Wavelet Transform
“I gained a lot of knowledge about direction from this experience working with Project Vermilion. I was able to direct my efforts into a worthwhile idea and work towards finding the sufficient materials for that.”
An ADHD-Relevant Psychological Model for Ocular Control
“Project Vermilion has helped me conduct research regarding neurodivergent disorders, and it was a great experience. Based on what I have seen, they have also done well communicating this within neurodivergent communities, making it easier for kids to access necessary support and therapy.”
Identifying and Reducing Distractions Using Wearable EEG Technology
“The most important thing I learned is how to make use of my time when I don't have all the materials I need. Because of Project Vermilion, I have a much better understanding of my experimental procedure and how to actually analyze the EEG data properly."
Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair
Evan enhanced pharmaceutical options that alleviate core ASD symptoms while investigating sex-specific treatment complexities with Cannabidiol (CBD).
Tanish optimized ASD screening accuracy using Random Forest algorithms and Neural Networks by utilizing behavioral and demographic data from toddlers.
Mahie created an artificial intelligence companion deployed on a Raspberry Pi to improve social communication for neurodivergent individuals, especially those with autism spectrum disorder.
Advaitha developed an Artificial intelligence powered web application designed to assist in the early detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through facial expression analysis.
Publications
Mahie analyzed 2022 data from SAMHSA's Mental Health Client-Level Data (MH-CLD) to investigate ADHD prevalence and comorbidity.
Mehereen conducted a comprehensive overview of AI treatment research for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from 2007 to 2023.
Neuroimaging Insights into ASD
Mahie analyzed recent structural and functional brain imaging studies to understand the biological basis of ASD.
Relationship Between Spirituality and OCD
Mahie helped perform literature review, qualitative analysis, and statistical analysis on OCD discourse.
Other Competitions