Virginia teen creates AI-driven CRISPR tool to boost algae biofuel output

Millie Pradawong, a 14-year-old from Virginia, has built a computational platform named MACRO that merges machine-learning models with CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to optimize microalgae for biofuel production. The system predicts genetic modifications that could raise oil generation while preserving healthy algal growth, addressing a key obstacle in scaling algae-based fuels. Microalgae naturally absorb carbon dioxide and produce oils convertible to fuel, yet attempts to boost oil often stunt their proliferation.

By forecasting promising edits before lab work, MACRO could cut experimental time and cost. Pradawong’s work earned her a spot among ten finalists in the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, and she cites CRISPR as her favorite recent invention. She aspires to become a physician-scientist, blending medical practice with research on challenges like this.