Genes in Space, the five finalists: Karun Isaac

When Karun Isaac, 14, came across the Genes in Space contest in The National, the shy but ambitious youngster knew he wanted to be involved.

Genes in Space finalist Karun Isaac with teacher Srividya Jagathrakshagan. Satish Kumar / The National

DUBAI // After encouraging one of her star pupils to enter Genes in Space, a science teacher in Dubai was taken aback when another student was chosen as a finalist.

Srividya Jagathrakshagan, head of biology at Gems Modern Academy, had assumed the pupil who had three experiments sent to space was an odds-on favourite to get a fourth.

“Although the other experiment idea was great it could have been conducted anywhere, while Karun’s was more specific to space,” she said.

Karun Isaac, 14, knew he wanted to be involved as soon as he read about the contest in The National.

“I like genetics and the idea of genetic modification, and thought this would be a possible career for me in the future,” the quietly ambitious Year 9 pupil said.

Karun’s love of science stemmed from his father, an engineer by trade, who often spoke to him about physics

His interest in genetic modification led to him present an idea that would investigate the cause of neuro-degeneration through cosmic radiation in space.

“It has been proven that conditions in space accelerate neuro-degeneration and I thought looking into it deeper was essential to ensure the mental health of astronauts,” Karun said.

The hands-on experience of using the mini-PCR machine while attending a Genes in Space seminar in the capital in August was key to helping him formulate his idea.

Ms Jagathrakshagan said she already had plans to incorporate the mini-PCR won by Karun as a finalist into her lessons.

“The PCR machine will make a huge difference. It is already part of our Grade 12 curriculum and so far I have only been able to show my pupils a YouTube video of the device,” she said.

Ms Jagathrakshagan believed access to the device would create a lasting impression on the pupils and would encourage more of them to pursue a career in biotechnology.

“I would not be surprised to see more than 10 groups participating from our school alone next year,” she said.

Karun said he knew how hard he had to work to compete, but he was more motivated then ever before.

“It is a great opportunity and I look forward to the next stage of the competition,” he said.

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Genes in Space: Full coverage

■ Profiles: Meet the five finalists for Genes in Space

■ In pictures: UAE pupils get chance to fine tune their entries

■ National Editorial: More than a contest

■ A step closer: Eight UAE pupils among final five

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