Sadie Kolodner ’28 and Juliette Moore ’27 participated in the 2026 New York Youth Institute at Cornell University, where they were named Borlaug Scholars—an honor awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional commitment to addressing global food security issues through research and innovation.

Sadie and Juliette joined peers from across New York State for a day of collaboration, learning, and hands-on exploration. Part of the World Food Prize Foundation’s Global Youth Institute initiative, the New York Youth Institute invites students to research critical global challenges and propose solutions grounded in science, policy, and innovation.

Juliette’s research paper, “Conventional Biofortification of Rice to Reduce Iron Deficiency in China,” examined conventional biofortification of rice as a strategy to reduce iron deficiency in China. "I appreciated the chance to connect with other students and share my research on iron deficiency in China and the potential of iron biofortification to reduce iron deficiency anemia,” said Juliette. “My RCDS independent study in biochemistry led me to research topics in global nutrition."

Sadie's research focused on malnutrition among Indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon, inspired by her firsthand experience on the RCDS Global Studies trip to Peru last June. "I was really honored to be selected as a Borlaug Scholar and given the opportunity to present my research on malnutrition among Indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon,” shared Sadie. “Seeing firsthand the enormous environmental challenges and food insecurity faced by the Indigenous communities led me to pursue this research."

During their day at Cornell, students toured cutting-edge research labs and engaged with scientists at the Boyce Thompson Institute, where they explored biotechnology and gene editing in action. One particular highlight included repotting a genetically modified purple tomato plant! Juliette and Sadie were guided in their research by Kerry Linderoth and Dr. Cathie Bischoff, respectively.

 “Through her project with the NY Youth Institute, Juliette explored a challenging global issue with curiosity and strong analytical skills,” Ms. Linderoth said. “Her research highlights her passion for science and her ability to apply her coursework and experiences to real-world challenges.”

“Sadie’s research was both insightful and impactful, and I was incredibly impressed by the depth of her work. The New York Youth Institute offers a remarkable opportunity for students to engage with global challenges, and Sadie’s work highlights just how meaningful that experience can be,” shared Dr. Bischoff.