Virginia teen uses AI and CRISPR to boost biofuel from microalgae
Fourteen-year-old Millie Pradawong has developed a computational tool called MACRO that uses machine learning and CRISPR to optimize biofuel production in microalgae. Her project aims to increase oil yield without compromising the growth rate of the algae.
Why it matters
Advancements in biofuel technology are critical for sustainable energy, and this project demonstrates the potential of youth-led innovation in biotechnology.
A fourteen-year-old teen in United States has developed a computational tool with the help of machine learning and CRISPR gene editing to improve biofuel production. Millie Pradawong is one of the ten finalists in the 3M Young Scientist Challenge this year.Her project is called MACRO (Machine Learning-Augmented CRISPR Reprogramming Optimisation). MACRO predicts how gene editing could change the way microalgae use energy. It aims to increased oil production while maintaining healthy growth of the algae.Microalgae are tiny organisms that grow quickly, absorb carbon dioxide and naturally produce oils that can be converted into fuel. Scientists see them as a possible source of cleaner energy.
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