Tag: PR Newswire

Data demonstrate preclinical proof-of-concept for HWK-007, HWK-016 and HWK-206, underpinned by Whitehawk’s proprietary Carbon Bridge Cysteine Re-pairing platform

Tumor regressions observed across various cancer models at low single‑digit mg/kg doses, with favorable tolerability (HNSTD 60 mg/kg) and low systemic levels of free payload (≤0.01% AUC)

Phase 1 trials for HWK-007 and HWK-016 are ongoing; an IND submission for HWK-206 is on track for mid-2026

MORRISTOWN, N.J., April 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Whitehawk Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: WHWK), a clinical-stage oncology therapeutics company applying advanced technologies to established tumor biology to efficiently deliver improved antibody drug conjugate (ADC) cancer treatments, today announced the presentation of new preclinical data across its ADC portfolio at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2026, taking place April 17-22, 2026, in San Diego, CA.

“Across our three ADC programs, we have a consistent preclinical profile characterized by potent tumor regressions, high plasma stability and favorable tolerability in non‑human primates, coupled with low systemic levels of free payload,” said David Dornan, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer of Whitehawk Therapeutics. “These data support the potential for our next‑generation bioconjugation and proprietary Carbon Bridge Cysteine Re-pairing linker-payload to deliver a differentiated, potentially best-in-class therapeutic index among TOP1i-based ADCs, which is fundamental to realizing the promise of ADCs for patients.”

Overview of Preclinical Presentations

“Preclinical assessment of HWK-007, a next-generation, PTK7-targeting ADC with novel bioconjugation and linker-payload technology” (Poster #4439)

HWK-007 targets PTK7, the third most highly expressed tumor marker among clinically validated and emerging ADC targets, present in ~70% of tumors. HWK‑007 is being evaluated in an ongoing Phase 1 clinical trial in patients with non-squamous, EGFR wild-type non-small cell lung cancer; platinum-resistant ovarian cancer; and endometrial cancer (NCT07444814). Key preclinical findings include:

• High‑affinity binding and efficient internalization across a range of PTK7 expression levels
• Demonstrates potent binding, internalization and tumor cell-killing in a range of solid cancer cell lines
• Exhibits bystander activity and produces tumor regressions at doses as low as 1 mg/kg in small cell lung cancer and ovarian cancer models
• Demonstrates favorable pharmacokinetics and is well tolerated in non‑human primates with an HNSTD of 60 mg/kg (the maximal dose tested)
• Demonstrates high stability with free payload of 0.0067% AUC detected in circulation

“Preclinical assessment of HWK-016, a next-generation, MUC16-targeting ADC with novel bioconjugation and linker-payload technology” (Minisymposium Oral Presentation #1324)

HWK‑016 targets the non‑shed extracellular domain of MUC16 to avoid binding to circulating CA125 and associated antigen sink effects observed with earlier MUC16‑directed ADCs. HWK‑016 is being evaluated in an ongoing Phase 1 clinical trial in patients with advanced ovarian and endometrial cancers (NCT07470853). Key preclinical findings include:

• Selectively binds membrane‑bound MUC16 to ensure delivery to the tumor instead of circulating CA125
• Demonstrates potent binding, internalization and tumor cell-killing, and is minimally impacted by exogenous CA125
• Exhibits bystander activity, and produces tumor regressions at doses as low as 1 mg/kg in ovarian cancer xenograft models that shed high levels of CA125
• Demonstrates favorable pharmacokinetics and is well tolerated in non‑human primates with an HNSTD of 60 mg/kg (the maximal dose tested)
• Demonstrates high stability with free payload of <0.01% AUC detected in circulation

“Preclinical assessment of HWK-206, a next-generation, biparatopic, SEZ6-targeting ADC with novel bioconjugation and linker-payload technology” (Poster #4440)

HWK‑206 targets SEZ6 with a biparatopic antibody designed to enhance binding, receptor clustering and internalization. Whitehawk plans to submit an Investigational New Drug (IND) application for HWK‑206 in mid-2026 and initiate a Phase 1 clinical trial in Q3 2026. Key preclinical findings include:

• Increased binding and internalization compared with a parental monoclonal antibody alone, and compared with clinical-stage ADC, ABBV-706
• Greater inhibition of cell viability compared with ABBV-706 in cell lines with varying SEZ6 expression
• Produces tumor regressions at doses as low as 2 mg/kg in small cell lung cancer models
• Demonstrates favorable pharmacokinetics and is well tolerated in non‑human primates with an HNSTD of 60 mg/kg (the maximal dose tested)
• Demonstrates high stability with free payload of 0.01% AUC detected in circulation

More information can be found on the AACR 2026 meeting website. The posters and presentation will be accessible on the Presentations page of the Investors & News section of the Company’s website at www.whitehawktx.com following presentation at the meeting. 

About Whitehawk Therapeutics
Whitehawk Therapeutics is a clinical-stage oncology therapeutics company applying advanced technologies to established tumor biology to efficiently deliver improved cancer treatments. Whitehawk’s advanced three-asset ADC portfolio is engineered to overcome the limitations of first-generation predecessors to deliver a meaningful impact for patients with difficult-to-treat cancers. These assets are in-licensed from WuXi Biologics under an exclusive development and global commercialization agreement. More information on the Company is available at www.whitehawktx.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements 
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements regarding the business of Whitehawk Therapeutics that are not a description of historical facts within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current beliefs and expectations and may include, but are not limited to: plans related to the Company’s development of its portfolio of ADC assets, including the anticipated timing of the submission of an IND in mid-2026 for HWK-206 and initiation of the related Phase 1 trial in Q3 2026; statements relating to expectations regarding the beneficial characteristics, optimized ADC design features, safety, efficacy and therapeutic effects with respect to the ADC portfolio, including the Company’s bioconjugation and linker payload platform; and the sufficiency of the Company’s existing capital resources and the expected timeframe to fund its future operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation, uncertainties associated with preclinical and clinical development of the ADC portfolio, including potential delays in the commencement, enrollment and completion of clinical trials and inability to replicate results from earlier studies; the risk that unforeseen adverse reactions or side effects may occur in the course of testing of the ADC portfolio; and risks related to the Company’s estimates regarding future expenses, capital requirements and need for additional financing.

Additional risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements are included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, including under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors,” and in Whitehawk’s subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and elsewhere in Whitehawk’s reports and other documents that Whitehawk has filed, or will file, with the SEC from time to time and available at www.sec.gov. 

All forward-looking statements in this press release are current only as of the date hereof and, except as required by applicable law, Whitehawk undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement is made under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

Contact:
IR@whitehawktx.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/whitehawk-therapeutics-presents-comprehensive-preclinical-data-highlighting-its-next-generation-adc-portfolio-at-the-aacr-2026-302746115.html

SOURCE Whitehawk Therapeutics, Inc.

Data demonstrate preclinical proof-of-concept for HWK-007, HWK-016 and HWK-206, underpinned by Whitehawk’s proprietary Carbon Bridge Cysteine Re-pairing platform

Tumor regressions observed across various cancer models at low single‑digit mg/kg doses, with favorable tolerability (HNSTD 60 mg/kg) and low systemic levels of free payload (≤0.01% AUC)

Phase 1 trials for HWK-007 and HWK-016 are ongoing; an IND submission for HWK-206 is on track for mid-2026

MORRISTOWN, N.J., April 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Whitehawk Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: WHWK), a clinical-stage oncology therapeutics company applying advanced technologies to established tumor biology to efficiently deliver improved antibody drug conjugate (ADC) cancer treatments, today announced the presentation of new preclinical data across its ADC portfolio at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2026, taking place April 17-22, 2026, in San Diego, CA.

“Across our three ADC programs, we have a consistent preclinical profile characterized by potent tumor regressions, high plasma stability and favorable tolerability in non‑human primates, coupled with low systemic levels of free payload,” said David Dornan, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer of Whitehawk Therapeutics. “These data support the potential for our next‑generation bioconjugation and proprietary Carbon Bridge Cysteine Re-pairing linker-payload to deliver a differentiated, potentially best-in-class therapeutic index among TOP1i-based ADCs, which is fundamental to realizing the promise of ADCs for patients.”

Overview of Preclinical Presentations

“Preclinical assessment of HWK-007, a next-generation, PTK7-targeting ADC with novel bioconjugation and linker-payload technology” (Poster #4439)

HWK-007 targets PTK7, the third most highly expressed tumor marker among clinically validated and emerging ADC targets, present in ~70% of tumors. HWK‑007 is being evaluated in an ongoing Phase 1 clinical trial in patients with non-squamous, EGFR wild-type non-small cell lung cancer; platinum-resistant ovarian cancer; and endometrial cancer (NCT07444814). Key preclinical findings include:

• High‑affinity binding and efficient internalization across a range of PTK7 expression levels
• Demonstrates potent binding, internalization and tumor cell-killing in a range of solid cancer cell lines
• Exhibits bystander activity and produces tumor regressions at doses as low as 1 mg/kg in small cell lung cancer and ovarian cancer models
• Demonstrates favorable pharmacokinetics and is well tolerated in non‑human primates with an HNSTD of 60 mg/kg (the maximal dose tested)
• Demonstrates high stability with free payload of 0.0067% AUC detected in circulation

“Preclinical assessment of HWK-016, a next-generation, MUC16-targeting ADC with novel bioconjugation and linker-payload technology” (Minisymposium Oral Presentation #1324)

HWK‑016 targets the non‑shed extracellular domain of MUC16 to avoid binding to circulating CA125 and associated antigen sink effects observed with earlier MUC16‑directed ADCs. HWK‑016 is being evaluated in an ongoing Phase 1 clinical trial in patients with advanced ovarian and endometrial cancers (NCT07470853). Key preclinical findings include:

• Selectively binds membrane‑bound MUC16 to ensure delivery to the tumor instead of circulating CA125
• Demonstrates potent binding, internalization and tumor cell-killing, and is minimally impacted by exogenous CA125
• Exhibits bystander activity, and produces tumor regressions at doses as low as 1 mg/kg in ovarian cancer xenograft models that shed high levels of CA125
• Demonstrates favorable pharmacokinetics and is well tolerated in non‑human primates with an HNSTD of 60 mg/kg (the maximal dose tested)
• Demonstrates high stability with free payload of <0.01% AUC detected in circulation

“Preclinical assessment of HWK-206, a next-generation, biparatopic, SEZ6-targeting ADC with novel bioconjugation and linker-payload technology” (Poster #4440)

HWK‑206 targets SEZ6 with a biparatopic antibody designed to enhance binding, receptor clustering and internalization. Whitehawk plans to submit an Investigational New Drug (IND) application for HWK‑206 in mid-2026 and initiate a Phase 1 clinical trial in Q3 2026. Key preclinical findings include:

• Increased binding and internalization compared with a parental monoclonal antibody alone, and compared with clinical-stage ADC, ABBV-706
• Greater inhibition of cell viability compared with ABBV-706 in cell lines with varying SEZ6 expression
• Produces tumor regressions at doses as low as 2 mg/kg in small cell lung cancer models
• Demonstrates favorable pharmacokinetics and is well tolerated in non‑human primates with an HNSTD of 60 mg/kg (the maximal dose tested)
• Demonstrates high stability with free payload of 0.01% AUC detected in circulation

More information can be found on the AACR 2026 meeting website. The posters and presentation will be accessible on the Presentations page of the Investors & News section of the Company’s website at www.whitehawktx.com following presentation at the meeting. 

About Whitehawk Therapeutics
Whitehawk Therapeutics is a clinical-stage oncology therapeutics company applying advanced technologies to established tumor biology to efficiently deliver improved cancer treatments. Whitehawk’s advanced three-asset ADC portfolio is engineered to overcome the limitations of first-generation predecessors to deliver a meaningful impact for patients with difficult-to-treat cancers. These assets are in-licensed from WuXi Biologics under an exclusive development and global commercialization agreement. More information on the Company is available at www.whitehawktx.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements 
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements regarding the business of Whitehawk Therapeutics that are not a description of historical facts within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current beliefs and expectations and may include, but are not limited to: plans related to the Company’s development of its portfolio of ADC assets, including the anticipated timing of the submission of an IND in mid-2026 for HWK-206 and initiation of the related Phase 1 trial in Q3 2026; statements relating to expectations regarding the beneficial characteristics, optimized ADC design features, safety, efficacy and therapeutic effects with respect to the ADC portfolio, including the Company’s bioconjugation and linker payload platform; and the sufficiency of the Company’s existing capital resources and the expected timeframe to fund its future operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation, uncertainties associated with preclinical and clinical development of the ADC portfolio, including potential delays in the commencement, enrollment and completion of clinical trials and inability to replicate results from earlier studies; the risk that unforeseen adverse reactions or side effects may occur in the course of testing of the ADC portfolio; and risks related to the Company’s estimates regarding future expenses, capital requirements and need for additional financing.

Additional risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements are included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, including under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors,” and in Whitehawk’s subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and elsewhere in Whitehawk’s reports and other documents that Whitehawk has filed, or will file, with the SEC from time to time and available at www.sec.gov. 

All forward-looking statements in this press release are current only as of the date hereof and, except as required by applicable law, Whitehawk undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement is made under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

Contact:
IR@whitehawktx.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/whitehawk-therapeutics-presents-comprehensive-preclinical-data-highlighting-its-next-generation-adc-portfolio-at-the-aacr-2026-302746115.html

SOURCE Whitehawk Therapeutics, Inc.

Data demonstrate preclinical proof-of-concept for HWK-007, HWK-016 and HWK-206, underpinned by Whitehawk’s proprietary Carbon Bridge Cysteine Re-pairing platform

Tumor regressions observed across various cancer models at low single‑digit mg/kg doses, with favorable tolerability (HNSTD 60 mg/kg) and low systemic levels of free payload (≤0.01% AUC)

Phase 1 trials for HWK-007 and HWK-016 are ongoing; an IND submission for HWK-206 is on track for mid-2026

MORRISTOWN, N.J., April 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Whitehawk Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: WHWK), a clinical-stage oncology therapeutics company applying advanced technologies to established tumor biology to efficiently deliver improved antibody drug conjugate (ADC) cancer treatments, today announced the presentation of new preclinical data across its ADC portfolio at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2026, taking place April 17-22, 2026, in San Diego, CA.

“Across our three ADC programs, we have a consistent preclinical profile characterized by potent tumor regressions, high plasma stability and favorable tolerability in non‑human primates, coupled with low systemic levels of free payload,” said David Dornan, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer of Whitehawk Therapeutics. “These data support the potential for our next‑generation bioconjugation and proprietary Carbon Bridge Cysteine Re-pairing linker-payload to deliver a differentiated, potentially best-in-class therapeutic index among TOP1i-based ADCs, which is fundamental to realizing the promise of ADCs for patients.”

Overview of Preclinical Presentations

“Preclinical assessment of HWK-007, a next-generation, PTK7-targeting ADC with novel bioconjugation and linker-payload technology” (Poster #4439)

HWK-007 targets PTK7, the third most highly expressed tumor marker among clinically validated and emerging ADC targets, present in ~70% of tumors. HWK‑007 is being evaluated in an ongoing Phase 1 clinical trial in patients with non-squamous, EGFR wild-type non-small cell lung cancer; platinum-resistant ovarian cancer; and endometrial cancer (NCT07444814). Key preclinical findings include:

• High‑affinity binding and efficient internalization across a range of PTK7 expression levels
• Demonstrates potent binding, internalization and tumor cell-killing in a range of solid cancer cell lines
• Exhibits bystander activity and produces tumor regressions at doses as low as 1 mg/kg in small cell lung cancer and ovarian cancer models
• Demonstrates favorable pharmacokinetics and is well tolerated in non‑human primates with an HNSTD of 60 mg/kg (the maximal dose tested)
• Demonstrates high stability with free payload of 0.0067% AUC detected in circulation

“Preclinical assessment of HWK-016, a next-generation, MUC16-targeting ADC with novel bioconjugation and linker-payload technology” (Minisymposium Oral Presentation #1324)

HWK‑016 targets the non‑shed extracellular domain of MUC16 to avoid binding to circulating CA125 and associated antigen sink effects observed with earlier MUC16‑directed ADCs. HWK‑016 is being evaluated in an ongoing Phase 1 clinical trial in patients with advanced ovarian and endometrial cancers (NCT07470853). Key preclinical findings include:

• Selectively binds membrane‑bound MUC16 to ensure delivery to the tumor instead of circulating CA125
• Demonstrates potent binding, internalization and tumor cell-killing, and is minimally impacted by exogenous CA125
• Exhibits bystander activity, and produces tumor regressions at doses as low as 1 mg/kg in ovarian cancer xenograft models that shed high levels of CA125
• Demonstrates favorable pharmacokinetics and is well tolerated in non‑human primates with an HNSTD of 60 mg/kg (the maximal dose tested)
• Demonstrates high stability with free payload of <0.01% AUC detected in circulation

“Preclinical assessment of HWK-206, a next-generation, biparatopic, SEZ6-targeting ADC with novel bioconjugation and linker-payload technology” (Poster #4440)

HWK‑206 targets SEZ6 with a biparatopic antibody designed to enhance binding, receptor clustering and internalization. Whitehawk plans to submit an Investigational New Drug (IND) application for HWK‑206 in mid-2026 and initiate a Phase 1 clinical trial in Q3 2026. Key preclinical findings include:

• Increased binding and internalization compared with a parental monoclonal antibody alone, and compared with clinical-stage ADC, ABBV-706
• Greater inhibition of cell viability compared with ABBV-706 in cell lines with varying SEZ6 expression
• Produces tumor regressions at doses as low as 2 mg/kg in small cell lung cancer models
• Demonstrates favorable pharmacokinetics and is well tolerated in non‑human primates with an HNSTD of 60 mg/kg (the maximal dose tested)
• Demonstrates high stability with free payload of 0.01% AUC detected in circulation

More information can be found on the AACR 2026 meeting website. The posters and presentation will be accessible on the Presentations page of the Investors & News section of the Company’s website at www.whitehawktx.com following presentation at the meeting. 

About Whitehawk Therapeutics
Whitehawk Therapeutics is a clinical-stage oncology therapeutics company applying advanced technologies to established tumor biology to efficiently deliver improved cancer treatments. Whitehawk’s advanced three-asset ADC portfolio is engineered to overcome the limitations of first-generation predecessors to deliver a meaningful impact for patients with difficult-to-treat cancers. These assets are in-licensed from WuXi Biologics under an exclusive development and global commercialization agreement. More information on the Company is available at www.whitehawktx.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements 
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements regarding the business of Whitehawk Therapeutics that are not a description of historical facts within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current beliefs and expectations and may include, but are not limited to: plans related to the Company’s development of its portfolio of ADC assets, including the anticipated timing of the submission of an IND in mid-2026 for HWK-206 and initiation of the related Phase 1 trial in Q3 2026; statements relating to expectations regarding the beneficial characteristics, optimized ADC design features, safety, efficacy and therapeutic effects with respect to the ADC portfolio, including the Company’s bioconjugation and linker payload platform; and the sufficiency of the Company’s existing capital resources and the expected timeframe to fund its future operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation, uncertainties associated with preclinical and clinical development of the ADC portfolio, including potential delays in the commencement, enrollment and completion of clinical trials and inability to replicate results from earlier studies; the risk that unforeseen adverse reactions or side effects may occur in the course of testing of the ADC portfolio; and risks related to the Company’s estimates regarding future expenses, capital requirements and need for additional financing.

Additional risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements are included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, including under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors,” and in Whitehawk’s subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and elsewhere in Whitehawk’s reports and other documents that Whitehawk has filed, or will file, with the SEC from time to time and available at www.sec.gov. 

All forward-looking statements in this press release are current only as of the date hereof and, except as required by applicable law, Whitehawk undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement is made under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

Contact:
IR@whitehawktx.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/whitehawk-therapeutics-presents-comprehensive-preclinical-data-highlighting-its-next-generation-adc-portfolio-at-the-aacr-2026-302746115.html

SOURCE Whitehawk Therapeutics, Inc.

MUNICH, April 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At the 18th “Taicang Day” event held in Munich, Germany, State Grid Taicang Power Supply Company presented its approach to reliable low-carbon power supply, streamlined grid connection, and renewable energy partnerships, highlighting how grid modernization is supporting international investment in Jiangsu.

Suzhou remains a key hub for foreign investment in eastern China. Within Suzhou, Taicang — often referred to as the “Home of German Companies in China” — hosts more than 560 German-backed firms, helping drive the growth of multiple industrial clusters worth hundreds of billions of yuan.

In Suzhou, State Grid Suzhou Power Supply Company has rolled out 20 “Plug-and-Play” power access demonstration zones, led efforts to raise the low-voltage access standard to 200 kilowatts, and implemented policies extending power infrastructure investment to the customer’s property line. Since the start of the 14^th Five-Year Plan period, these moves have saved customers over 10 billion yuan in cumulative grid connection costs. “We’ve introduced a suite of innovations — including ‘Plug-and-Play’ power access, shared all-electric infrastructure, and staged power delivery — as part of our commitment to building a world-class electric power business environment,” said Cao Jun, Director of the company’s Marketing Department. “We will continue expanding renewable energy collaboration while improving service for enterprise customers.”

State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power has made targeted and high-impact strides in reliable power supply, streamlined services, and the low-carbon transition, supporting Jiangsu’s broader economic development and investment climate.

Built around the low-carbon needs of businesses, the company has established an end-to-end low-carbon energy service system. In 2025, Jiangsu’s renewable electricity trading volume exceeded 22 billion kilowatt-hours, while green certificate transactions surpassed 3.5 million. The province also developed China’s first internationally certified provincial-level electricity carbon emission factor database and launched a carbon accounting system. A resilient framework is now in place to ensure reliable power supply for businesses — combining a strong backbone transmission network, an intelligent distribution system, smart microgrids, and an integrated information platform. By drawing on the flexibility of source–grid–load–storage integration and deploying live-line maintenance, the company has helped Jiangsu achieve 51 consecutive years without a major blackout. Power supply reliability now stands at 99.996%, equivalent to an average annual outage time of just 0.35 hours per household.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/state-grid-jiangsu-highlights-99-996-power-reliability-and-streamlined-grid-access-for-international-businesses-utility-outlines-low-carbon-power-supply-reduced-connection-costs-and-investor-focused-infrastructure-in-suzhou-302746606.html

SOURCE State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power

MUNICH, April 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At the 18th “Taicang Day” event held in Munich, Germany, State Grid Taicang Power Supply Company presented its approach to reliable low-carbon power supply, streamlined grid connection, and renewable energy partnerships, highlighting how grid modernization is supporting international investment in Jiangsu.

Suzhou remains a key hub for foreign investment in eastern China. Within Suzhou, Taicang — often referred to as the “Home of German Companies in China” — hosts more than 560 German-backed firms, helping drive the growth of multiple industrial clusters worth hundreds of billions of yuan.

In Suzhou, State Grid Suzhou Power Supply Company has rolled out 20 “Plug-and-Play” power access demonstration zones, led efforts to raise the low-voltage access standard to 200 kilowatts, and implemented policies extending power infrastructure investment to the customer’s property line. Since the start of the 14^th Five-Year Plan period, these moves have saved customers over 10 billion yuan in cumulative grid connection costs. “We’ve introduced a suite of innovations — including ‘Plug-and-Play’ power access, shared all-electric infrastructure, and staged power delivery — as part of our commitment to building a world-class electric power business environment,” said Cao Jun, Director of the company’s Marketing Department. “We will continue expanding renewable energy collaboration while improving service for enterprise customers.”

State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power has made targeted and high-impact strides in reliable power supply, streamlined services, and the low-carbon transition, supporting Jiangsu’s broader economic development and investment climate.

Built around the low-carbon needs of businesses, the company has established an end-to-end low-carbon energy service system. In 2025, Jiangsu’s renewable electricity trading volume exceeded 22 billion kilowatt-hours, while green certificate transactions surpassed 3.5 million. The province also developed China’s first internationally certified provincial-level electricity carbon emission factor database and launched a carbon accounting system. A resilient framework is now in place to ensure reliable power supply for businesses — combining a strong backbone transmission network, an intelligent distribution system, smart microgrids, and an integrated information platform. By drawing on the flexibility of source–grid–load–storage integration and deploying live-line maintenance, the company has helped Jiangsu achieve 51 consecutive years without a major blackout. Power supply reliability now stands at 99.996%, equivalent to an average annual outage time of just 0.35 hours per household.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/state-grid-jiangsu-highlights-99-996-power-reliability-and-streamlined-grid-access-for-international-businesses-utility-outlines-low-carbon-power-supply-reduced-connection-costs-and-investor-focused-infrastructure-in-suzhou-302746606.html

SOURCE State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power

MUNICH, April 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At the 18th “Taicang Day” event held in Munich, Germany, State Grid Taicang Power Supply Company presented its approach to reliable low-carbon power supply, streamlined grid connection, and renewable energy partnerships, highlighting how grid modernization is supporting international investment in Jiangsu.

Suzhou remains a key hub for foreign investment in eastern China. Within Suzhou, Taicang — often referred to as the “Home of German Companies in China” — hosts more than 560 German-backed firms, helping drive the growth of multiple industrial clusters worth hundreds of billions of yuan.

In Suzhou, State Grid Suzhou Power Supply Company has rolled out 20 “Plug-and-Play” power access demonstration zones, led efforts to raise the low-voltage access standard to 200 kilowatts, and implemented policies extending power infrastructure investment to the customer’s property line. Since the start of the 14^th Five-Year Plan period, these moves have saved customers over 10 billion yuan in cumulative grid connection costs. “We’ve introduced a suite of innovations — including ‘Plug-and-Play’ power access, shared all-electric infrastructure, and staged power delivery — as part of our commitment to building a world-class electric power business environment,” said Cao Jun, Director of the company’s Marketing Department. “We will continue expanding renewable energy collaboration while improving service for enterprise customers.”

State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power has made targeted and high-impact strides in reliable power supply, streamlined services, and the low-carbon transition, supporting Jiangsu’s broader economic development and investment climate.

Built around the low-carbon needs of businesses, the company has established an end-to-end low-carbon energy service system. In 2025, Jiangsu’s renewable electricity trading volume exceeded 22 billion kilowatt-hours, while green certificate transactions surpassed 3.5 million. The province also developed China’s first internationally certified provincial-level electricity carbon emission factor database and launched a carbon accounting system. A resilient framework is now in place to ensure reliable power supply for businesses — combining a strong backbone transmission network, an intelligent distribution system, smart microgrids, and an integrated information platform. By drawing on the flexibility of source–grid–load–storage integration and deploying live-line maintenance, the company has helped Jiangsu achieve 51 consecutive years without a major blackout. Power supply reliability now stands at 99.996%, equivalent to an average annual outage time of just 0.35 hours per household.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/state-grid-jiangsu-highlights-99-996-power-reliability-and-streamlined-grid-access-for-international-businesses-utility-outlines-low-carbon-power-supply-reduced-connection-costs-and-investor-focused-infrastructure-in-suzhou-302746606.html

SOURCE State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power

Matea Cañizarez, Age 18, of Quito, Ecuador, Receives Top Honors and $400,000 in Education Prizes for her Original Video Explaining Quark-Gluon Plasma

SAN FRANCISCO, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Breakthrough Prize Foundation today announced Ecuador-based student Matea Cañizarez as the winner of the 11^th annual Breakthrough Junior Challenge, a global competition that empowers young people to creatively communicate complex ideas in the life sciences, physics, and mathematics.

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge will provide $400,000 in educational awards to Matea and her teacher, Roberto Procel. As the student winner, Matea will be granted a $250,000 college scholarship. In recognition of his work as a science teacher, Mr. Procel will receive a $50,000 award. The prize package also includes a cutting-edge science laboratory, designed by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and valued at $100,000, to be installed at Colegio Johannes Kepler, Matea’s current school, located in Quito, Ecuador. 

Matea was honored alongside the 2026 Breakthrough Prize laureates at The Breakthrough Prize Ceremony in Los Angeles on April 18, 2026.

“It’s exhilarating to meet bright, curious young people like Matea,” said Julia Milner, co-founder of the Breakthrough Junior Challenge, “And to see them pursuing their passion for ideas and communicating it to others makes me truly hopeful for the future,” said Julia Milner, co-founder of the Breakthrough Prize.

Matea’s winning entry explains quark-gluon plasma, an extreme state of matter that existed just after the Big Bang, in which quarks and gluons move freely instead of being bound inside protons and neutrons. Her short video can be seen here. This was Matea’s first entry to the Breakthrough Junior Prize, and she is currently applying for college next fall.

“Coming from a rural town in Ecuador, my passion for science was not a given. I am humbled by the honor of winning the Breakthrough Junior Challenge and hope to work in the service of society and nature by making the most of this opportunity,” said Matea.

“Congratulations on your beautiful video explaining the quark-gluon plasma,” said David Gross, winner of the 2026 Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, whose theories led directly to the discovery of the phenomenon in Matea’s video. Gross continued, “Very exciting, very well done, and I hope you stay in physics and help us understand even better the properties of the quark-gluon plasma in the laboratory, in the early Universe, and perhaps in the core of neutron stars.”

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is a global program designed to showcase and advance young people’s understanding of science and core scientific principles, spark enthusiasm for STEM fields, encourage pursuit of STEM careers, and engage the broader public in fundamental scientific concepts. Each year, students ages 13 to 18 are invited to produce original videos of up to two minutes that explain a concept or theory in life sciences, physics, or mathematics.

Entries are judged on how effectively participants communicate complex scientific ideas in clear, compelling, and creative ways.

“Seeing students take on complex topics and explain them with enthusiasm and creativity is inspiring,” said Sal Khan, founder and CEO of Khan Academy and Vision Steward of TED. “Their work is a reminder that when young people are given access and opportunity to explore their interests, they can achieve great things.”

This year, the Breakthrough Junior Challenge attracted more than 2,500 applicants from around the world. Submissions were narrowed down to 30 semifinalists, which represented the top submissions after two rounds of judging: first, a mandatory peer review, followed by an evaluation panel of judges. Sixteen finalists were selected in December 2025.

Celebrating its 11^th year, the Breakthrough Junior Challenge has reached a global community of more than 100,000 students, parents, and educators, drawing upwards of 30,000 applications from students in over 200 countries, including Canada, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, Singapore, and the United States. Since its launch, the program has distributed more than $2.5 million in college scholarships, invested $1 million in state-of-the-art science laboratories, and awarded $500,000 to exceptional science and mathematics teachers. Winning submissions have explored subjects ranging from  Mechanogenetic Cellular Engineering, Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, Circadian Rhythms, Neutrino Astronomy, and more. Challenge alumni have continued their academic journeys at top-tier universities such as MIT, Harvard, Princeton, and Stanford.

This year’s Selection Committee was comprised of: Thea Booysen, MsC, social media director for neurologist Dr. Richard Isaacson and founder of MadeByHuman; Rachel Crane, space and science correspondent, CNN; Pascale Ehrenfreund, PhD, president, Committee on Space Research COSPAR; Dennis Gaitsgory, professor, Max Planck Institute for Mathematics, and Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics Laureate; John Grunsfelt, PhD astronaut, associate administrator for science, chief scientist at NASA Headquarters; Mae Jemison, physician, former astronaut, entrepreneur; Jeffery W. Kelly, professor of chemistry, Scripps Research Institute and Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences laureate; Scott Kelly, retired NASA astronaut; Salman Khan, founder and CEO, Khan Academy; Ijad Madisch, CEO, co-founder, ResearchGate; Samaya Nissanke, University of Amsterdam, Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics laureate; Nicole Stott, NASA astronaut, and co-founder of the Space for Art Foundation; Andrew Strominger, professor of physics, Harvard University, and Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics laureate; Terence Tao, UCLA professor and Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics laureate; Esther Wojcicki, founder, Palo Alto High Media Arts Center; Richard Youle, National Institutes of Health, and Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences laureate; and S. Pete Worden, chairman, Breakthrough Prize Foundation.

Partners

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge
The Breakthrough Junior Challenge, co-founded by Julia and Yuri Milner, is a global science video competition, aiming to develop and demonstrate young people’s knowledge of science and scientific principles and communications skills; generate excitement in these fields; support STEM career choices; and engage the imagination and interest of the public-at-large in key concepts of fundamental science.

The Breakthrough Prize
The Breakthrough Prize, renowned as the “Oscars of Science,” recognizes the world’s top scientists. Each prize is $3 million and presented in the fields of Life Sciences, Fundamental Physics (one per year) and Mathematics (one per year). In addition, up to three New Horizons in Physics Prizes, up to three New Horizons in Mathematics Prizes and up to three Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prizes are given out to early-career researchers each year. Laureates attend a gala award ceremony designed to celebrate their achievements and inspire the next generation of scientists.

The Breakthrough Prizes were founded by Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner, and Anne Wojcicki. The Prizes have been sponsored by the personal foundations established by Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner and Anne Wojcicki. Selection Committees composed of previous Breakthrough Prize laureates in each field choose the winners. Information on the Breakthrough Prize is available at breakthroughprize.org.

About Khan Academy
Khan Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission of providing a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. Since 2008, Khan Academy has provided an education safety net, a free platform designed to provide global access to high-quality learning for students and free resources for teachers. Khan Academy partners with more than 600 school districts in the United States and works with school systems in countries around the world, providing tools that personalize education. Khan Academy is at the forefront of using AI in education to support students while ensuring educators remain at the heart of the classroom. Worldwide, more than 200 million registered learners have used Khan Academy in 190 countries and more than 50 languages. For more information, please see research findings about Khan Academy and our press center.

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL)
The Breakthrough Prize Lab for the winning student’s school is designed in partnership with Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL). Founded in 1890, CSHL, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, powers transformational discoveries in cancer, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, plant biology, and quantitative biology. Through world-renowned science and education divisions, CSHL nurtures a culture of curiosity, discovery, and innovation to make lives better. CSHL’s DNA Learning Center (DNALC) is the largest provider of hands-on instruction in genetics and biotechnology, reaching nearly 40,000 middle and high school students through field trips, day camps, summer camps, mentored research projects, and teacher training. For more than a century, CSHL has been a powerful and productive environment for developing, connecting, and sharing world-changing ideas. For more information, visit www.cshl.edu<http://www.cshl.edu/>>.

Contact
For more information, including competition rules, video submission guidelines and queries, go to: breakthroughjuniorchallenge.org.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/breakthrough-prize-foundation-announces-winner-of-the-11th-annual-breakthrough-junior-challenge-302746554.html

SOURCE Breakthrough Prize

Matea Cañizarez, Age 18, of Quito, Ecuador, Receives Top Honors and $400,000 in Education Prizes for her Original Video Explaining Quark-Gluon Plasma

SAN FRANCISCO, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Breakthrough Prize Foundation today announced Ecuador-based student Matea Cañizarez as the winner of the 11^th annual Breakthrough Junior Challenge, a global competition that empowers young people to creatively communicate complex ideas in the life sciences, physics, and mathematics.

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge will provide $400,000 in educational awards to Matea and her teacher, Roberto Procel. As the student winner, Matea will be granted a $250,000 college scholarship. In recognition of his work as a science teacher, Mr. Procel will receive a $50,000 award. The prize package also includes a cutting-edge science laboratory, designed by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and valued at $100,000, to be installed at Colegio Johannes Kepler, Matea’s current school, located in Quito, Ecuador. 

Matea was honored alongside the 2026 Breakthrough Prize laureates at The Breakthrough Prize Ceremony in Los Angeles on April 18, 2026.

“It’s exhilarating to meet bright, curious young people like Matea,” said Julia Milner, co-founder of the Breakthrough Junior Challenge, “And to see them pursuing their passion for ideas and communicating it to others makes me truly hopeful for the future,” said Julia Milner, co-founder of the Breakthrough Prize.

Matea’s winning entry explains quark-gluon plasma, an extreme state of matter that existed just after the Big Bang, in which quarks and gluons move freely instead of being bound inside protons and neutrons. Her short video can be seen here. This was Matea’s first entry to the Breakthrough Junior Prize, and she is currently applying for college next fall.

“Coming from a rural town in Ecuador, my passion for science was not a given. I am humbled by the honor of winning the Breakthrough Junior Challenge and hope to work in the service of society and nature by making the most of this opportunity,” said Matea.

“Congratulations on your beautiful video explaining the quark-gluon plasma,” said David Gross, winner of the 2026 Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, whose theories led directly to the discovery of the phenomenon in Matea’s video. Gross continued, “Very exciting, very well done, and I hope you stay in physics and help us understand even better the properties of the quark-gluon plasma in the laboratory, in the early Universe, and perhaps in the core of neutron stars.”

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is a global program designed to showcase and advance young people’s understanding of science and core scientific principles, spark enthusiasm for STEM fields, encourage pursuit of STEM careers, and engage the broader public in fundamental scientific concepts. Each year, students ages 13 to 18 are invited to produce original videos of up to two minutes that explain a concept or theory in life sciences, physics, or mathematics.

Entries are judged on how effectively participants communicate complex scientific ideas in clear, compelling, and creative ways.

“Seeing students take on complex topics and explain them with enthusiasm and creativity is inspiring,” said Sal Khan, founder and CEO of Khan Academy and Vision Steward of TED. “Their work is a reminder that when young people are given access and opportunity to explore their interests, they can achieve great things.”

This year, the Breakthrough Junior Challenge attracted more than 2,500 applicants from around the world. Submissions were narrowed down to 30 semifinalists, which represented the top submissions after two rounds of judging: first, a mandatory peer review, followed by an evaluation panel of judges. Sixteen finalists were selected in December 2025.

Celebrating its 11^th year, the Breakthrough Junior Challenge has reached a global community of more than 100,000 students, parents, and educators, drawing upwards of 30,000 applications from students in over 200 countries, including Canada, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, Singapore, and the United States. Since its launch, the program has distributed more than $2.5 million in college scholarships, invested $1 million in state-of-the-art science laboratories, and awarded $500,000 to exceptional science and mathematics teachers. Winning submissions have explored subjects ranging from  Mechanogenetic Cellular Engineering, Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, Circadian Rhythms, Neutrino Astronomy, and more. Challenge alumni have continued their academic journeys at top-tier universities such as MIT, Harvard, Princeton, and Stanford.

This year’s Selection Committee was comprised of: Thea Booysen, MsC, social media director for neurologist Dr. Richard Isaacson and founder of MadeByHuman; Rachel Crane, space and science correspondent, CNN; Pascale Ehrenfreund, PhD, president, Committee on Space Research COSPAR; Dennis Gaitsgory, professor, Max Planck Institute for Mathematics, and Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics Laureate; John Grunsfelt, PhD astronaut, associate administrator for science, chief scientist at NASA Headquarters; Mae Jemison, physician, former astronaut, entrepreneur; Jeffery W. Kelly, professor of chemistry, Scripps Research Institute and Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences laureate; Scott Kelly, retired NASA astronaut; Salman Khan, founder and CEO, Khan Academy; Ijad Madisch, CEO, co-founder, ResearchGate; Samaya Nissanke, University of Amsterdam, Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics laureate; Nicole Stott, NASA astronaut, and co-founder of the Space for Art Foundation; Andrew Strominger, professor of physics, Harvard University, and Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics laureate; Terence Tao, UCLA professor and Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics laureate; Esther Wojcicki, founder, Palo Alto High Media Arts Center; Richard Youle, National Institutes of Health, and Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences laureate; and S. Pete Worden, chairman, Breakthrough Prize Foundation.

Partners

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge
The Breakthrough Junior Challenge, co-founded by Julia and Yuri Milner, is a global science video competition, aiming to develop and demonstrate young people’s knowledge of science and scientific principles and communications skills; generate excitement in these fields; support STEM career choices; and engage the imagination and interest of the public-at-large in key concepts of fundamental science.

The Breakthrough Prize
The Breakthrough Prize, renowned as the “Oscars of Science,” recognizes the world’s top scientists. Each prize is $3 million and presented in the fields of Life Sciences, Fundamental Physics (one per year) and Mathematics (one per year). In addition, up to three New Horizons in Physics Prizes, up to three New Horizons in Mathematics Prizes and up to three Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prizes are given out to early-career researchers each year. Laureates attend a gala award ceremony designed to celebrate their achievements and inspire the next generation of scientists.

The Breakthrough Prizes were founded by Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner, and Anne Wojcicki. The Prizes have been sponsored by the personal foundations established by Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner and Anne Wojcicki. Selection Committees composed of previous Breakthrough Prize laureates in each field choose the winners. Information on the Breakthrough Prize is available at breakthroughprize.org.

About Khan Academy
Khan Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission of providing a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. Since 2008, Khan Academy has provided an education safety net, a free platform designed to provide global access to high-quality learning for students and free resources for teachers. Khan Academy partners with more than 600 school districts in the United States and works with school systems in countries around the world, providing tools that personalize education. Khan Academy is at the forefront of using AI in education to support students while ensuring educators remain at the heart of the classroom. Worldwide, more than 200 million registered learners have used Khan Academy in 190 countries and more than 50 languages. For more information, please see research findings about Khan Academy and our press center.

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL)
The Breakthrough Prize Lab for the winning student’s school is designed in partnership with Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL). Founded in 1890, CSHL, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, powers transformational discoveries in cancer, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, plant biology, and quantitative biology. Through world-renowned science and education divisions, CSHL nurtures a culture of curiosity, discovery, and innovation to make lives better. CSHL’s DNA Learning Center (DNALC) is the largest provider of hands-on instruction in genetics and biotechnology, reaching nearly 40,000 middle and high school students through field trips, day camps, summer camps, mentored research projects, and teacher training. For more than a century, CSHL has been a powerful and productive environment for developing, connecting, and sharing world-changing ideas. For more information, visit www.cshl.edu<http://www.cshl.edu/>>.

Contact
For more information, including competition rules, video submission guidelines and queries, go to: breakthroughjuniorchallenge.org.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/breakthrough-prize-foundation-announces-winner-of-the-11th-annual-breakthrough-junior-challenge-302746554.html

SOURCE Breakthrough Prize

Matea Cañizarez, Age 18, of Quito, Ecuador, Receives Top Honors and $400,000 in Education Prizes for her Original Video Explaining Quark-Gluon Plasma

SAN FRANCISCO, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Breakthrough Prize Foundation today announced Ecuador-based student Matea Cañizarez as the winner of the 11^th annual Breakthrough Junior Challenge, a global competition that empowers young people to creatively communicate complex ideas in the life sciences, physics, and mathematics.

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge will provide $400,000 in educational awards to Matea and her teacher, Roberto Procel. As the student winner, Matea will be granted a $250,000 college scholarship. In recognition of his work as a science teacher, Mr. Procel will receive a $50,000 award. The prize package also includes a cutting-edge science laboratory, designed by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and valued at $100,000, to be installed at Colegio Johannes Kepler, Matea’s current school, located in Quito, Ecuador. 

Matea was honored alongside the 2026 Breakthrough Prize laureates at The Breakthrough Prize Ceremony in Los Angeles on April 18, 2026.

“It’s exhilarating to meet bright, curious young people like Matea,” said Julia Milner, co-founder of the Breakthrough Junior Challenge, “And to see them pursuing their passion for ideas and communicating it to others makes me truly hopeful for the future,” said Julia Milner, co-founder of the Breakthrough Prize.

Matea’s winning entry explains quark-gluon plasma, an extreme state of matter that existed just after the Big Bang, in which quarks and gluons move freely instead of being bound inside protons and neutrons. Her short video can be seen here. This was Matea’s first entry to the Breakthrough Junior Prize, and she is currently applying for college next fall.

“Coming from a rural town in Ecuador, my passion for science was not a given. I am humbled by the honor of winning the Breakthrough Junior Challenge and hope to work in the service of society and nature by making the most of this opportunity,” said Matea.

“Congratulations on your beautiful video explaining the quark-gluon plasma,” said David Gross, winner of the 2026 Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, whose theories led directly to the discovery of the phenomenon in Matea’s video. Gross continued, “Very exciting, very well done, and I hope you stay in physics and help us understand even better the properties of the quark-gluon plasma in the laboratory, in the early Universe, and perhaps in the core of neutron stars.”

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is a global program designed to showcase and advance young people’s understanding of science and core scientific principles, spark enthusiasm for STEM fields, encourage pursuit of STEM careers, and engage the broader public in fundamental scientific concepts. Each year, students ages 13 to 18 are invited to produce original videos of up to two minutes that explain a concept or theory in life sciences, physics, or mathematics.

Entries are judged on how effectively participants communicate complex scientific ideas in clear, compelling, and creative ways.

“Seeing students take on complex topics and explain them with enthusiasm and creativity is inspiring,” said Sal Khan, founder and CEO of Khan Academy and Vision Steward of TED. “Their work is a reminder that when young people are given access and opportunity to explore their interests, they can achieve great things.”

This year, the Breakthrough Junior Challenge attracted more than 2,500 applicants from around the world. Submissions were narrowed down to 30 semifinalists, which represented the top submissions after two rounds of judging: first, a mandatory peer review, followed by an evaluation panel of judges. Sixteen finalists were selected in December 2025.

Celebrating its 11^th year, the Breakthrough Junior Challenge has reached a global community of more than 100,000 students, parents, and educators, drawing upwards of 30,000 applications from students in over 200 countries, including Canada, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, Singapore, and the United States. Since its launch, the program has distributed more than $2.5 million in college scholarships, invested $1 million in state-of-the-art science laboratories, and awarded $500,000 to exceptional science and mathematics teachers. Winning submissions have explored subjects ranging from  Mechanogenetic Cellular Engineering, Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, Circadian Rhythms, Neutrino Astronomy, and more. Challenge alumni have continued their academic journeys at top-tier universities such as MIT, Harvard, Princeton, and Stanford.

This year’s Selection Committee was comprised of: Thea Booysen, MsC, social media director for neurologist Dr. Richard Isaacson and founder of MadeByHuman; Rachel Crane, space and science correspondent, CNN; Pascale Ehrenfreund, PhD, president, Committee on Space Research COSPAR; Dennis Gaitsgory, professor, Max Planck Institute for Mathematics, and Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics Laureate; John Grunsfelt, PhD astronaut, associate administrator for science, chief scientist at NASA Headquarters; Mae Jemison, physician, former astronaut, entrepreneur; Jeffery W. Kelly, professor of chemistry, Scripps Research Institute and Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences laureate; Scott Kelly, retired NASA astronaut; Salman Khan, founder and CEO, Khan Academy; Ijad Madisch, CEO, co-founder, ResearchGate; Samaya Nissanke, University of Amsterdam, Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics laureate; Nicole Stott, NASA astronaut, and co-founder of the Space for Art Foundation; Andrew Strominger, professor of physics, Harvard University, and Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics laureate; Terence Tao, UCLA professor and Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics laureate; Esther Wojcicki, founder, Palo Alto High Media Arts Center; Richard Youle, National Institutes of Health, and Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences laureate; and S. Pete Worden, chairman, Breakthrough Prize Foundation.

Partners

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge
The Breakthrough Junior Challenge, co-founded by Julia and Yuri Milner, is a global science video competition, aiming to develop and demonstrate young people’s knowledge of science and scientific principles and communications skills; generate excitement in these fields; support STEM career choices; and engage the imagination and interest of the public-at-large in key concepts of fundamental science.

The Breakthrough Prize
The Breakthrough Prize, renowned as the “Oscars of Science,” recognizes the world’s top scientists. Each prize is $3 million and presented in the fields of Life Sciences, Fundamental Physics (one per year) and Mathematics (one per year). In addition, up to three New Horizons in Physics Prizes, up to three New Horizons in Mathematics Prizes and up to three Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prizes are given out to early-career researchers each year. Laureates attend a gala award ceremony designed to celebrate their achievements and inspire the next generation of scientists.

The Breakthrough Prizes were founded by Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner, and Anne Wojcicki. The Prizes have been sponsored by the personal foundations established by Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner and Anne Wojcicki. Selection Committees composed of previous Breakthrough Prize laureates in each field choose the winners. Information on the Breakthrough Prize is available at breakthroughprize.org.

About Khan Academy
Khan Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission of providing a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. Since 2008, Khan Academy has provided an education safety net, a free platform designed to provide global access to high-quality learning for students and free resources for teachers. Khan Academy partners with more than 600 school districts in the United States and works with school systems in countries around the world, providing tools that personalize education. Khan Academy is at the forefront of using AI in education to support students while ensuring educators remain at the heart of the classroom. Worldwide, more than 200 million registered learners have used Khan Academy in 190 countries and more than 50 languages. For more information, please see research findings about Khan Academy and our press center.

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL)
The Breakthrough Prize Lab for the winning student’s school is designed in partnership with Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL). Founded in 1890, CSHL, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, powers transformational discoveries in cancer, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, plant biology, and quantitative biology. Through world-renowned science and education divisions, CSHL nurtures a culture of curiosity, discovery, and innovation to make lives better. CSHL’s DNA Learning Center (DNALC) is the largest provider of hands-on instruction in genetics and biotechnology, reaching nearly 40,000 middle and high school students through field trips, day camps, summer camps, mentored research projects, and teacher training. For more than a century, CSHL has been a powerful and productive environment for developing, connecting, and sharing world-changing ideas. For more information, visit www.cshl.edu<http://www.cshl.edu/>>.

Contact
For more information, including competition rules, video submission guidelines and queries, go to: breakthroughjuniorchallenge.org.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/breakthrough-prize-foundation-announces-winner-of-the-11th-annual-breakthrough-junior-challenge-302746554.html

SOURCE Breakthrough Prize

Matea Cañizarez, Age 18, of Quito, Ecuador, Receives Top Honors and $400,000 in Education Prizes for her Original Video Explaining Quark-Gluon Plasma

SAN FRANCISCO, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Breakthrough Prize Foundation today announced Ecuador-based student Matea Cañizarez as the winner of the 11^th annual Breakthrough Junior Challenge, a global competition that empowers young people to creatively communicate complex ideas in the life sciences, physics, and mathematics.

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge will provide $400,000 in educational awards to Matea and her teacher, Roberto Procel. As the student winner, Matea will be granted a $250,000 college scholarship. In recognition of his work as a science teacher, Mr. Procel will receive a $50,000 award. The prize package also includes a cutting-edge science laboratory, designed by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and valued at $100,000, to be installed at Colegio Johannes Kepler, Matea’s current school, located in Quito, Ecuador. 

Matea was honored alongside the 2026 Breakthrough Prize laureates at The Breakthrough Prize Ceremony in Los Angeles on April 18, 2026.

“It’s exhilarating to meet bright, curious young people like Matea,” said Julia Milner, co-founder of the Breakthrough Junior Challenge, “And to see them pursuing their passion for ideas and communicating it to others makes me truly hopeful for the future,” said Julia Milner, co-founder of the Breakthrough Prize.

Matea’s winning entry explains quark-gluon plasma, an extreme state of matter that existed just after the Big Bang, in which quarks and gluons move freely instead of being bound inside protons and neutrons. Her short video can be seen here. This was Matea’s first entry to the Breakthrough Junior Prize, and she is currently applying for college next fall.

“Coming from a rural town in Ecuador, my passion for science was not a given. I am humbled by the honor of winning the Breakthrough Junior Challenge and hope to work in the service of society and nature by making the most of this opportunity,” said Matea.

“Congratulations on your beautiful video explaining the quark-gluon plasma,” said David Gross, winner of the 2026 Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, whose theories led directly to the discovery of the phenomenon in Matea’s video. Gross continued, “Very exciting, very well done, and I hope you stay in physics and help us understand even better the properties of the quark-gluon plasma in the laboratory, in the early Universe, and perhaps in the core of neutron stars.”

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is a global program designed to showcase and advance young people’s understanding of science and core scientific principles, spark enthusiasm for STEM fields, encourage pursuit of STEM careers, and engage the broader public in fundamental scientific concepts. Each year, students ages 13 to 18 are invited to produce original videos of up to two minutes that explain a concept or theory in life sciences, physics, or mathematics.

Entries are judged on how effectively participants communicate complex scientific ideas in clear, compelling, and creative ways.

“Seeing students take on complex topics and explain them with enthusiasm and creativity is inspiring,” said Sal Khan, founder and CEO of Khan Academy and Vision Steward of TED. “Their work is a reminder that when young people are given access and opportunity to explore their interests, they can achieve great things.”

This year, the Breakthrough Junior Challenge attracted more than 2,500 applicants from around the world. Submissions were narrowed down to 30 semifinalists, which represented the top submissions after two rounds of judging: first, a mandatory peer review, followed by an evaluation panel of judges. Sixteen finalists were selected in December 2025.

Celebrating its 11^th year, the Breakthrough Junior Challenge has reached a global community of more than 100,000 students, parents, and educators, drawing upwards of 30,000 applications from students in over 200 countries, including Canada, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, Singapore, and the United States. Since its launch, the program has distributed more than $2.5 million in college scholarships, invested $1 million in state-of-the-art science laboratories, and awarded $500,000 to exceptional science and mathematics teachers. Winning submissions have explored subjects ranging from  Mechanogenetic Cellular Engineering, Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, Circadian Rhythms, Neutrino Astronomy, and more. Challenge alumni have continued their academic journeys at top-tier universities such as MIT, Harvard, Princeton, and Stanford.

This year’s Selection Committee was comprised of: Thea Booysen, MsC, social media director for neurologist Dr. Richard Isaacson and founder of MadeByHuman; Rachel Crane, space and science correspondent, CNN; Pascale Ehrenfreund, PhD, president, Committee on Space Research COSPAR; Dennis Gaitsgory, professor, Max Planck Institute for Mathematics, and Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics Laureate; John Grunsfelt, PhD astronaut, associate administrator for science, chief scientist at NASA Headquarters; Mae Jemison, physician, former astronaut, entrepreneur; Jeffery W. Kelly, professor of chemistry, Scripps Research Institute and Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences laureate; Scott Kelly, retired NASA astronaut; Salman Khan, founder and CEO, Khan Academy; Ijad Madisch, CEO, co-founder, ResearchGate; Samaya Nissanke, University of Amsterdam, Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics laureate; Nicole Stott, NASA astronaut, and co-founder of the Space for Art Foundation; Andrew Strominger, professor of physics, Harvard University, and Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics laureate; Terence Tao, UCLA professor and Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics laureate; Esther Wojcicki, founder, Palo Alto High Media Arts Center; Richard Youle, National Institutes of Health, and Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences laureate; and S. Pete Worden, chairman, Breakthrough Prize Foundation.

Partners

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge
The Breakthrough Junior Challenge, co-founded by Julia and Yuri Milner, is a global science video competition, aiming to develop and demonstrate young people’s knowledge of science and scientific principles and communications skills; generate excitement in these fields; support STEM career choices; and engage the imagination and interest of the public-at-large in key concepts of fundamental science.

The Breakthrough Prize
The Breakthrough Prize, renowned as the “Oscars of Science,” recognizes the world’s top scientists. Each prize is $3 million and presented in the fields of Life Sciences, Fundamental Physics (one per year) and Mathematics (one per year). In addition, up to three New Horizons in Physics Prizes, up to three New Horizons in Mathematics Prizes and up to three Maryam Mirzakhani New Frontiers Prizes are given out to early-career researchers each year. Laureates attend a gala award ceremony designed to celebrate their achievements and inspire the next generation of scientists.

The Breakthrough Prizes were founded by Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner, and Anne Wojcicki. The Prizes have been sponsored by the personal foundations established by Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Julia and Yuri Milner and Anne Wojcicki. Selection Committees composed of previous Breakthrough Prize laureates in each field choose the winners. Information on the Breakthrough Prize is available at breakthroughprize.org.

About Khan Academy
Khan Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission of providing a free, world-class education for anyone, anywhere. Since 2008, Khan Academy has provided an education safety net, a free platform designed to provide global access to high-quality learning for students and free resources for teachers. Khan Academy partners with more than 600 school districts in the United States and works with school systems in countries around the world, providing tools that personalize education. Khan Academy is at the forefront of using AI in education to support students while ensuring educators remain at the heart of the classroom. Worldwide, more than 200 million registered learners have used Khan Academy in 190 countries and more than 50 languages. For more information, please see research findings about Khan Academy and our press center.

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL)
The Breakthrough Prize Lab for the winning student’s school is designed in partnership with Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL). Founded in 1890, CSHL, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, powers transformational discoveries in cancer, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, plant biology, and quantitative biology. Through world-renowned science and education divisions, CSHL nurtures a culture of curiosity, discovery, and innovation to make lives better. CSHL’s DNA Learning Center (DNALC) is the largest provider of hands-on instruction in genetics and biotechnology, reaching nearly 40,000 middle and high school students through field trips, day camps, summer camps, mentored research projects, and teacher training. For more than a century, CSHL has been a powerful and productive environment for developing, connecting, and sharing world-changing ideas. For more information, visit www.cshl.edu<http://www.cshl.edu/>>.

Contact
For more information, including competition rules, video submission guidelines and queries, go to: breakthroughjuniorchallenge.org.

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SOURCE Breakthrough Prize