Identical twins from Brentwood advanced to the semifinals in the Regeneron Science Talent Search.

Roberto and Ricardo Lopez are Brentwood High School seniors who did separate research projects on the salt marsh at Sunken Meadow State Park. Both are concerned about environmental issues and hope their research will help save the planet global warming.

The brothers say they are thrilled for each other.

"It's just a feeling of deep appreciation, and that makes me want to keep on going and keep my passion in research," Roberto says.

They also credit their teacher, Rebecca Grella, with their success.

"I've been dedicating my career towards bridging the gap between the haves and the have nots," Grella says.

Brentwood is Long Island's largest school district and also one of its most economically disadvantaged. Grella has helped improved access for science research students by working with Stony Brook University to bring lab equipment to the high school.

Regeneron announced Roberto as one of the 40 finalists in the competition, an achievement that both brothers are happy about.

"It's such a good feeling to see him win and be happy and it makes me happy," Ricardo says.

Roberto will be headed to Washington, D.C. for the finals.

Both twins will be the first in their family to go to college.