65th Annual STS (2005-2006)
Finalists
Irina Vladimirovna Zaitseva

NEW YORK
Irina Vladimirovna Zaitseva, 18, of Centereach, entered a materials science project in the Intel Science Talent Search that might result in the formulation of the next generation of sunscreens. The nano-sized particles of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) contained in commercial sunscreens are known to photocatalyze when irradiated, generating oxidative radicals that may cause DNA damage on skin. Irina treated TiO₂ particles with a surface monomer that subsequently permitted the attachment of a polymer shell. She characterized the particle and surface polymer structure via atomic force microscopy, secondary ion mass spectroscopy and confocal microscopy, and demonstrated the efficacy of the polymer-coated TiO₂ particles for limiting degradation of model DNA compounds. Her methodology and results are being considered for patent application, and future journal publication. Irina enjoys playing the clarinet, and currently attends Centereach High School. She plans to study chemistry or psychology at the University of Pennsylvania or Brown, and ultimately pursue a career in chemistry. She was born in Russia and is the daughter of Dr. Vladimir Zaitsev and Irina Zaitseva.