The Oregon Brain Bee, founded in 2024 by high school student Nivriti Chandrasekar, emerged from a gap in local neuroscience education opportunities. Inspired by her success in the North South Foundation National Brain Bee, Nivriti recognized the absence of a chapter in Oregon and took the initiative to create one. The competition aims to inspire high school students to explore neuroscience through engaging challenges and hands-on experiences. Partnering with the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and local educators, the event has grown into a platform for aspiring neuroscientists, fostering a community of learners passionate about the complexities of the brain. From its humble beginnings, the Oregon Brain Bee now connects students to mentors, research opportunities, and a deeper understanding of the brain’s role in health and disease.
Coordinator
Founder and President
Vice-President
2025-2026 Directors
Ardra Arwin
Ardra is a freshman at Skyline High School in Sammamish, WA. She was the co-founder and President of her middle school Science Club, representing her school in prestigious competition including the National Science Bowl, Science Olympiad, FIRST LEGO League (FLL), and FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC). Ardra is deeply passionate about neuroscience and dedicated to understanding the underlying causes of neurodiverse medical conditions such as Autism, Dementia, Huntington’s Disease, and Alzheimer’s. She believes that with advances in research and technology-driven medical breakthroughs, many of these conditions could be prevented or treated if detected in vitro or at early stages.
Adwika Shini
Adwika is a sophomore at Westview High School with a strong passion for neuroscience and medicine. She enjoys competing in the Brain Bee and Science Olympiad, where she focuses on human anatomy, physiology, and neuroscience events. At school, she serves as President of the Indian Student Association, PR Director of the Interact Club, and Vice President of the Crochet Club, and outside of school, she volunteers at OHSU as a guide, where she supports patients and visitors. She also loves creative outlets such as dance, and she had won 1st place at the 2024 Rangeela competition, crocheting, and public speaking (MC).
Lasya Sri Vemprala
Lasya is a sophomore at the Beaverton Academy of Science and Engineering (BASE). She is currently pursuing the biomedical pathway and has strong interests in cardiology and biochemistry. What excites her most about neuroscience and the Brain Bee is the complexity of the brain and the chance to connect her passion for medicine with real-world challenges.
Nikhil Surya
Nikhil is a sophomore in high school with a strong passion for neuroscience and science education. After competing in the Oregon Brain Bee last year, he found the experience inspiring. He is excited to contribute to the Oregon Brain Bee community, support future competitors, and learn from the current board as he helps grow and enrich the program.