3M and Discovery Education have announced Kevin Tang, an eighth-grade student from Cedarlane Academy in the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District, Hacienda Heights, California, as the 2025 winner of the 3M Young Scientist Challenge—the nation’s leading science competition for middle school students. Kevin earned this distinction for developing an innovative fall detection system designed to enhance emergency response for older adults, even in low-light conditions. Along with the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist,” he was awarded a $25,000 grand prize.
Over a four-month period, Kevin competed against nine other finalists before emerging as the top winner at the final event held at 3M’s global headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota, on October 13–14. During the challenge, participants completed a variety of scientific tasks and were judged on criteria such as creativity, application of STEM concepts, communication and presentation skills, research, passion, and their ability to inspire others.
Kevin’s invention utilizes smart video analysis and alert technology to detect falls with remarkable precision, even at night. According to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of injury among adults aged 65 and older, impacting approximately one in four—over 14 million people—each year. Kevin’s device employs an algorithm that processes video footage to identify falls and instantly sends alerts to caregivers or family members through a linked mobile app. The system also monitors irregular walking patterns, potentially identifying early signs of conditions such as stroke. Its nighttime imaging capabilities and continuous monitoring set it apart from existing solutions on the market.
“Each year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge showcases the incredible potential of young innovators,” said Torie Clarke, executive vice president and chief public affairs officer at 3M. “These finalists remind us that great ideas can come from anywhere, and their curiosity and creativity are driving meaningful change. We’re extremely proud of their accomplishments and excited to see what they achieve next.”
Every finalist in the competition is mentored by a 3M scientist who helps them refine their ideas and create working prototypes. Kevin worked alongside Dr. Mark Gilbertson, a research specialist in robotics and AI within 3M’s Advanced Materials and Transportation division. “Kevin’s work was inspired by personal experiences, and it’s amazing to see him channel that into something that could genuinely help others,” Dr. Gilbertson said. “His innovation bridges compassion and technology beautifully. I believe his future in robotics and artificial intelligence is incredibly promising.”
Second and third place honors in the 2025 competition went to:
Amaira Srivastava, a ninth grader from Arizona College Prep High School, Chandler Unified School District, Gilbert, AZ Anirudh Rao, an eighth grader from STEM School Highlands Ranch, Douglas County School District, Lone Tree, CO Over a four-month period, Kevin competed against nine other finalists before emerging as the top winner at the final event held at 3M’s global headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota, on October 13–14. During the challenge, participants completed a variety of scientific tasks and were judged on criteria such as creativity, application of STEM concepts, communication and presentation skills, research, passion, and their ability to inspire others.
Kevin’s invention utilizes smart video analysis and alert technology to detect falls with remarkable precision, even at night. According to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of injury among adults aged 65 and older, impacting approximately one in four—over 14 million people—each year. Kevin’s device employs an algorithm that processes video footage to identify falls and instantly sends alerts to caregivers or family members through a linked mobile app. The system also monitors irregular walking patterns, potentially identifying early signs of conditions such as stroke. Its nighttime imaging capabilities and continuous monitoring set it apart from existing solutions on the market.
“Each year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge showcases the incredible potential of young innovators,” said Torie Clarke, executive vice president and chief public affairs officer at 3M. “These finalists remind us that great ideas can come from anywhere, and their curiosity and creativity are driving meaningful change. We’re extremely proud of their accomplishments and excited to see what they achieve next.”
Every finalist in the competition is mentored by a 3M scientist who helps them refine their ideas and create working prototypes. Kevin worked alongside Dr. Mark Gilbertson, a research specialist in robotics and AI within 3M’s Advanced Materials and Transportation division. “Kevin’s work was inspired by personal experiences, and it’s amazing to see him channel that into something that could genuinely help others,” Dr. Gilbertson said. “His innovation bridges compassion and technology beautifully. I believe his future in robotics and artificial intelligence is incredibly promising.”
Second and third place honors in the 2025 competition went to:
The other top finalists, listed alphabetically, include:
Each runner-up received a $1,000 award and national recognition for their innovative work.
Amy Nakamoto, executive vice president of corporate partnerships and marketing at Discovery Education, commented, “We’re honored to continue our collaboration with 3M through this inspiring program. The creativity and drive shown by Kevin and all the finalists give us tremendous optimism for the future.”
Now celebrating its 18th year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge continues to encourage middle school students to apply science and engineering in new and impactful ways. Alumni of the competition have gone on to deliver TED Talks, secure patents, launch nonprofits, and earn spots on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. Some have also been featured by TIME Magazine, The New York Times, and major television programs such as Good Morning America and The Kelly Clarkson Show. The 3M Young Scientist Alumni Network, launched in 2022, now includes over 100 past participants who engage in networking and mentorship opportunities.
The challenge is part of the larger Young Scientist Lab initiative, a joint program by 3M and Discovery Education that offers free, interactive STEM learning resources for students, families, and teachers. These materials are also available on Discovery Education Experience, supporting classrooms across grades PreK–12.
Click here to download images from the 2025 science competition.
Click here to know more about the 3M Young Scientist Challenge and see this year's winners and finalists.