Suhaan’s AI Research Journey: From AI Passion Project to Texas Science and Engineering Fair
Exploring the Power of AI:
Utilizing Artificial Intelligence in Gravitational Microlensing Detection: A novel study to enhance dark matter findings
When Suhaan joined the Inspirit AI + X 1:1 Mentorship Program, he was eager to dive deep into the intersection of artificial intelligence and astrophysics. After exploring several ideas with his mentor, he landed on a project titled “Utilizing Artificial Intelligence in Gravitational Microlensing Detection: A novel study to enhance dark matter findings.”
Suhaan chose this topic because of his long-standing interest in dark matter research, and wanted to explore how AI could drive real-world impact in this field.
“I came upon this research question when I read a paper published in 1936 by Einstein where he said, “There is no hope of ever detecting dark matter phenomena”. Intrigued, I explored and soon found an interest in dark matter research. My project utilizes Artificial Intelligence for gravitational microlensing detection to detect dark matter. Essentially I trained an AI model to analyze light curves of a star to be able determine if a theoretical dark matter object might have been present at a certain point and time. Through my research, I hope astrophysicists in the future can learn more about dark matter, its composition, and the Big Bang Theory. ”
One-on-One Mentorship That Makes a Difference
For Suhaan, the most valuable part of the 1:1 Mentorship Program was learning how to do an effective literature review.
Working closely with a Ph.D. mentor from Caltech, Suhaan gained not only technical knowledge but also the confidence to ask bold questions, iterate on ideas, and learn from failures. The structured yet flexible nature of the program helped them go from concept to publication-ready research in just a few months.
From Research to Recognition: Suhaan’s Awards and Achievements
The project Utilizing Artificial Intelligence in Gravitational Microlensing Detection has since earned Suhaan recognition in several prestigious venues. His work was accepted into the Texas Science and Engineering Fair, showcasing his contribution to cutting-edge high school research.
Beyond the accolades, the experience gave Suhaan a major confidence boost in his academic journey.
“I think the most valuable part of my research project was learning how to do an effective literature review. Reading past papers and finding a gap in preexisting studies is something that is useful not just for my project, but also for every future project I wish to conduct. ”
About the Inspirit AI 1:1 AI + X Mentorship Program
The Inspirit AI 1:1 AI + X Mentorship Program is a personalized research experience designed for ambitious high school students interested in exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and their unique areas of interest—ranging from medicine and neuroscience to climate science, economics, and beyond.
Students are paired with expert mentors from top institutions like Stanford, MIT, and Harvard, who guide them step-by-step through the process of designing, developing, and writing a publication-ready AI research project. The program equips students with both the technical skills and research mindset needed to produce original work, with the ultimate goal of submitting their projects to top high school journals, science fairs, and competitions.
The Value of Building an AI Research Project as a High Schooler
Publishing a research project as a high school student offers a powerful opportunity to stand out academically, demonstrate initiative, and showcase a deep commitment to learning beyond the classroom. It not only strengthens college applications by highlighting intellectual curiosity and advanced problem-solving skills, but also gives students experience with real-world scientific communication and academic rigor.
Whether submitted to a peer-reviewed journal or a high school research publication, having published work signals to universities and scholarship committees that a student is capable of producing meaningful, original contributions to their field of interest—something few high schoolers can claim.
Ready to turn your passion into a published AI research project? Apply to the Inspirit AI 1:1 AI + X Mentorship Program today and work one-on-one with expert mentors from top universities to bring your ideas to life. Spots are limited—take the first step toward making your mark in the world of AI research!
