# US teen uses AI and CRISPR to boost microalgae biofuel

2026-08-07T07:46:07+00:00 | Technology | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Millie Pradawong, a 14-year-old in the United States, is one of ten finalists in the 3M Young Scientist Challenge. She has created MACRO, Machine Learning-Augmented CRISPR Reprogramming Optimisation, a computational tool that combines machine learning and CRISPR gene editing. The tool predicts genetic changes to increase oil production in microalgae without slowing their growth. Microalgae absorb carbon dioxide and produce oils convertible to fuel, but boosting oil output typically hampers growth. Millie's project aims to solve this trade-off. She hopes to become a physician scientist. The Times of India reports that CRISPR, discovered by studying bacteria, is her favourite invention of the past 100 years because it allows precise DNA editing.

## Coverage

- timesofindia.indiatimes.com <https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/science/meet-millie-pradawong-the-14-year-old-virginia-student-using-machine-learning-and-crispr-to-make-microalgae-produce-more-biofuel/articleshow/133024242.cms>

Tags: AI, biofuel, CRISPR, microalgae, science
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