63rd Annual STS (2003-2004)
Finalists
Matan Harel

NEW YORK
Matan Harel, 17, of New York, developed a mathematical model of cell movement based on extension of the cytoskeleton, a flexible network made largely of a protein called actin that gives the cell its shape, for his Intel Science Talent Search project in physics. In a prior elastic ratchet movement model, the actin filaments, which are made up of negatively charged subunits, push against the membrane as they grow causing it to protrude and then drag the cell body toward the extended membrane. But the model neglected the electrostatic forces between filaments. Matan created an expanded ratchet movement model that accounted for these interactions. Matan's model now requires development and incorporation of in vivo experimental data to generate a precise numerical simulation. Matan, who attends Stuyvesant High School, was born in Israel. Fluent in Hebrew, he stays connected to his country by reading Israeli books and listening to Israeli radio. His many awards include a silver medal from the New York Metropolitan Area Math Fair. A pianist and swimmer, he is the son of Haim and Edna Harel. Matan plans to pursue a career in research following his education.