Undergraduate student Amabel Gale, a double major in computer science and design, was part of a team representing UC Davis at this year’s Biodesign Challenge Summit. The collaborative project “Sea Glass,” which harnesses microalgae to filter agricultural wastewater and, at the end of its use, the algae is converted into a bioplastic for eyewear, was presented by the team.

Gale partnered with undergraduate students Victoria Lam, cognitive science, and Sloka Suresh, biotechnology, to develop their research. The team was mentored by Professor Christina Cogdell.  

The team interviewed Professor Stephen Mayfield, director of Cal-CAB, the California Center for Algae Biotechnology at UC San Diego, who shared his research on converting algae into plastic to be used in the creation of biodegradable shoes.     

The “Sea Glass” presentation may be viewed on YouTube.

Biodesign Challenge is an education program and competition that is shaping the first generation of biodesigners. The group partners high school and university students with scientists, artists, and designers to envision, create, and critique transformational applications in biotech.