Undergraduate
Aza Allen is an undergraduate at the University of Washington working towards a degree in microbiology. She is interested in the ways that microbes can be used as tools for bio-remediation and bio-fuel production. The model green microalgae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii accumulates lipid during nutrient stress, and the oil produced can be converted to bio-fuel. As an intern in the Baliga lab, Aza collaborates on research which aims to better understand the regulatory networks in C. reinhardtii during lipid accumulation, and use bioengineering to translate this knowledge into the design of algal strains with increased lipid production capabilities. Currently, she is working on development of genetic analysis and custom vector delivery protocols for C. reinhardtii.