S&E Stories

A look inside the Science & Engineering program through student experiences, research, competitions, outreach, and alumni journeys.

MNHS Senior is Already Reshaping Clinical Research

MNHS senior Dia Avalur has combined her passion for chemistry, engineering, and medicine through research experiences at Cornell University, the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, and Harvard Medical School. Her work has included developing an origami-inspired hydrogel drug delivery system, researching PET/CT imaging for cancer treatment planning, and contributing to biomedical device research focused on minimally invasive procedures. Inspired by personal experiences and driven by a desire to improve patient care, Dia has earned recognition through science fairs, HOSA, NCWIT, and national neuroscience research competitions. This fall, she will attend the University of Arizona’s highly selective 7-year BS/MD program to continue pursuing research and innovation at the intersection of engineering and medicine.

S&E Students Participate in Global Dialogue on AI and STEM

On April 25th, S&E students Renee Robinson and Julia Khabinskiy presented at AI for Development: Girls Shaping the Digital Future, an international event featuring participants from China, India, Kenya, Spain, Türkiye, and the United States.

Renee opened the discussion by reflecting on the importance of role models and representation in STEM, while Julia shared the experiences and inspirations that shaped her journey in science and engineering. Their participation highlighted the power of student voice in global conversations about technology, opportunity, and the future of STEM.

S&E Celebrates 25th Night of Arts and Sciences

Our Science & Engineering Magnet Program recently celebrated its 25th Night of Arts and Sciences, presented by the Class of 2026. The evening highlighted the creativity and talent of our students through musical performances, senior internship presentations, engineering projects, and research showcases.

Highlights included a biomimetic robotic fish with custom PCB design, innovative medical research, and outstanding artistic performances. Thank you to Ms. Janel Powers, our student hosts, presenters, performers, and organizers for making the event such a memorable celebration of the S&E community.

HOSA Students Participate in State Leadership Conference

Our HOSA club participated in the 2026 State Leadership Conference, where students represented Manalapan High School with professionalism and confidence through thoughtful presentations and collaboration with peers from across the state.

Students also heard from keynote speaker Dr. Raynard Washington, NJ Department of Health Commissioner, whose message on public health and leadership added meaningful perspective to the experience. Proud of our students for their effort, growth, and commitment to the field.

Alumni Spotlight

Leading Engineering

at Princeton University

We are proud to share that S&E alumnus Andrew Houck ’00 has been named the new Dean of Princeton University’s School of Engineering and Applied Science. A Princeton valedictorian and respected researcher, Houck will now lead one of the nation’s top engineering schools during an important period of growth and innovation.

From S&E to Deep Space Communication

An incredible article highlighting advancements supporting NASA’s Artemis II mission and the future of deep space communication features work connected to S&E alumna Jade Wang, assistant leader and co-principal investigator in MIT Lincoln Laboratory’s Optical and Quantum Communications Group.

Her work on laser communication technologies is helping support the next generation of deep-space exploration and lunar missions. It is always inspiring to see our alumni applying their passion for science, engineering, and innovation to work that has a global impact.

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