Bio

Hi! I'm Laalitya, a student researcher and innovator who is working to change the world one step at a time! I am the founder of The Nereid Project, an organization that aims to raise awareness for the water crisis through research, outreach and policy efforts. On the research end, I have developed a method to detect microbial contamination in water through the analyzation of microscopic images of water. This method is affordable, accessible, and easily-applicable and I am currently working with local authorities and the US EPA to implement it in my hometown for real-world testing. For my research, I have been named as a Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) Finalist, competed as a finalist at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), won first place at the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS), and was a national finalist for the Stockholm Junior Water Prize (SJWP). Through The Nereid Project, I have also worked with hundreds of students to mentor and teach them about science (with a specific focus on water and ways to solve the water-crisis) and ways in which they can begin their scientific journey. Coming from a small and underfunded research program, science was my way to broaden my horizons and I hope to be able to share this passion with other students. We also host regular ''water nights'' where we discuss water and ways in which we can all make a difference and mitigate the devastating effects of the water crisis. For my work on the Nereid Project, I have been named as a Global Teen Leader, named as a Coca-Cola Regional Finalist, and won the Presidential Youth Service Award. My passion lies in integrating STEM and public policy together - which has always been a focus of mine through The Nereid Project and my career. I have worked with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer as both a casework and press intern. Through this position, I engaged with the constituents of New York to resolve any issues they may be facing. We work on a variety of concerns ranging from Social Security, US Academy Nominations, the IRS and more. Working in a congressional office has strengthened my passion for public policy and I hope to continue this work within my future career. I would love to connect with you so please reach out to me! I hope to hear from you soon.