Project Info
Development of a synthetic waste water medium to optimize growth and lipid productivity in algae
Nanette Boyle
nboyle@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
Algae have the potential to be a valuable source of biofuels and bioproducts due to their relatively fast growth and high lipid content. One challenge for scale up is the use of outdoor raceway ponds which necessitates the use of day/night light cycles and reduces growth rates. One approach to maximize growth is to provide cells with organic carbon sources to boost growth during the night period - but it has to be low cost substrates. This project will focus on developing a synthetic waste water medium supplemented with agricultural waste products and evaluate the best composition to optimize lipid productivity in 5 different algae strains.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Develop carbon sequestration methods.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/algal-research
Primary Contacts:
Nanette Boyle nboyle@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
Students working in this project should have some lab experience, including aseptic technique, simple cell culture, preparation of media. A general background in biology and biochemistry is preferred.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
5
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
Students will learn how to measure biomass composition, data collection and analysis, and scientific communication.
MENTORING PLAN
The student will be working alongside a PhD student in the lab and will be required to attend the Boyle group lab meetings 1 per month. At these meetings, they will present their work to date, discuss any challenges/troubleshooting and future plans. Once per semester, the student will present a formal presentation about the project they are working on.
PREFERRED STUDENT STATUS
Junior
Senior