 Featured Research
Young Scientist Researches Algae
Mark Lin is a junior at Palos Verdes High School and a student researcher at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. Following his initial idea of the “alginator” (a device that detoxified harmful algal blooms and turned them into a sustainable food source) in elementary school, he pursued research exploring algae and its uses in multiple industries. With support from the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, he developed a project investigating the growth of algae in different media and presented it at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in 2022. He earned 4th place in the category of Microbiology at ISEF, and now seeks to further expand his knowledge by applying his initial research to the practical application of space travel. Outside of research, Mark loves the outdoors and has a passion for music, international affairs, and (jokingly) arguing whether or not pineapple belongs on pizza.
For his project, Mark tested the growth of algae in different growth media and structural compositions. Algae is used in many industries today, ranging from food and cosmetics to biofuel and heavy metal absorption. With all its uses, however, issues in even light and heat distribution have limited its full functionality and application. If a new and more efficient way of growing algae was found, it could lower production costs, increasing consumer appeal and research on the multifaceted “plant of the future.”
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