This summer, Westhampton Beach High School junior Nicholas Borruso will be attending the prestigious Stony Brook Simons Summer Research Program. He is the first Westhampton Beach High School student to earn entry into the highly competitive program; only 4% of all applicants are accepted.

As part of the six-week program, Borruso will be working on zebrafish research with Professor Dr. Howard Sirotkin in the department of neurobiology and behavior.

“This is very validating for me,” said Borruso, whose science research project relates to the developmental and behavioral effects of copper sulfate on zebrafish. “My interests align perfectly with Dr. Sirotki’s fisheries research.”

Borruso first became interested in zebrafish after taking an online summer course through Brown University. He previously took an online course about bioscience through Stamford University.

“Nick has shown a strong interest in zebrafish neuroscience since I've met him, and I am very excited that he has earned the opportunity to work with researchers at Stony Brook University this summer, said Dr. Dianna Gobler, science research teacher.

To earn his spot in the summer program, Borruso was required to participate in a highly selective application process that included his impressive academic record and recommendations from his teachers.

He attributed his success to those teachers, noting, “The guidance of my science and math teachers has been exceptional.”

Apart from his research, Borruso serves as vice president of his school’s robotics team and is a member of Mathletes and Key Club.

Date Added: 4/4/2024