Ninth-Grader Aryash Shyam Named New Host Of Public Radio’s ‘Teen Scientist’

India-West News Desk

BETHLEHEM, PA – Bethlehem-based ninth-grade student Aryash Shyam has been named the new host of ‘Teen Scientist,’ the award-winning monthly science program on WDIY 88.1 FM, the Lehigh Valley’s NPR member station.

Shyam, a student scientist and inventor, will make his hosting debut on August 6. His first episode will examine the growing role of artificial intelligence in education and whether it is transforming learning or simply helping students complete assignments.

The appointment follows a string of achievements in science and engineering. Earlier this year, Shyam was selected as one of five recipients of the 2026 Genes in Space Junior Scientist Award for his proposal to validate a CRISPR-based diagnostic system for use in microgravity.

He also developed GreenBeam, an AI-powered robot that uses computer vision and lasers to identify and eliminate weeds without chemical herbicides. The project earned Pennsylvania State Merit recognition in the 2025 3M Young Scientist Challenge and received attention from several national and regional media outlets. mong his other honors are the 2026 PETE&C Technology Student of the Year award.

Beyond research, Shyam produced the documentary ‘Editing Humanity: A CRISPR Conundrum,’ which explores the science and ethics of gene editing. He also runs a student-led STEM education channel focused on artificial intelligence, coding, mathematics and science.

According to WDIY, ‘Teen Scientist’ features conversations with researchers from institutions including NASA, MIT, Stanford University, the University of Oxford and Imperial College London.

“Teen Scientist begins with the idea that young people can ask serious questions, build real solutions and contribute now,” Shyam said. “I want listeners to hear the uncertainty, creativity and persistence behind discovery, not just the finished answer, and to feel that science is a place where they belong.”