64th Annual STS (2004-2005)
Finalists
Michael Jeremy Barany

MINNESOTA
Michael Jeremy Barany, 17, of Falcon Heights, discovered possible new uses for silicon in organic synthesis reactions for his Intel Science Talent Search project in chemistry. Dithiasuccinoyl (Dts)-amines are sulfur and nitrogen-based chemicals used in medical and chemical safety applications. Synthesis of Dts-amines typically involves numerous steps, with low yields and many byproducts. Using spectroscopic techniques, Mike confirmed that with the inclusion of silicon, high-yield direct synthesis of Dts could be achieved using bis(chlorocarbonyl)disulfane and bis(trimethylsilyl)amine precursors. Mike presented his research at the 28th European Peptide Symposium in Prague, and will publish his results in the Journal of the American Chemical Society. Mike intends to study math or science at Stanford University and pursue a doctorate. First in his class of 498 at Roseville Area High School, Mike is captain of the debate team, has played on the tennis team and is active in the jazz band. He participated in the University of Minnesota Institute of Technology Honors Program, and received the Neal Kwong Youth Citizenship Award in 2003. His parents are Drs. George and Barbara Barany.