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The purpose of my research project is to study the reaction conditions that maximize the percent yield of platform molecules from algae, including temperature, reaction time, and use of catalysts. My stretch goal is to study the production of fuel and commodity molecules from these platform molecules, including oleofurans and 2,5-DMF.

Algae biofuels present a far more sustainable alternative to both fossil fuels and other proposed biofuels for several reasons. Unlike ethanol production, which is derived from corn and competes with both land use and corn production for food sources, algae production requires far less energy and space than corn, and its production could utilize space in oceans that would require much less infrastructure to grow than other plants. Efficient and cost-effective renewable energy from algae could potentially help reduce global dependence on fossil fuels, production of which is currently endangering the fate of humankind due to their exacerbation of climate change.