Benjamin Students Earn First Place at Max Planck Brain Challenge

Elle Derby, Ilia Peck, and Liv Heurich earned first place in the 2026 Brain Challenge at the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience.

“This accomplishment represents far more than a single day of competition. These students have demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication, discipline, and intellectual curiosity, committing themselves to rigorous preparation since August. Over the course of many months, they engaged deeply with complex neuroscience concepts, honed their analytical thinking, and pushed themselves to perform at the highest academic level,” said upper school science teacher Renee Szeliga.

The Brain Challenge brings together top high school students from across the region to test their knowledge of neuroscience in a demanding, high-level environment. This year’s competition featured 20 teams representing 11 schools. 

“To rise to the top in such a field is a testament not only to their mastery of the material, but also to their teamwork, resilience, and ability to think critically under pressure,” said Szeliga.

Szeliga said what makes this competition especially challenging is the level of rigor required. Participants must demonstrate a deep conceptual understanding of neuroscience and apply their knowledge in new and complex ways. 

“We are incredibly proud of the girls’ accomplishments and the way they represent our school, with integrity, perseverance, and a true passion for science. Their success reflects the very best of what it means to engage in meaningful, challenging, and authentic learning,” she said.