Amelie Chen of Pacific Horizons School placed 4th overall in biochemistry at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Los Angeles last week.
The ISEF is regarded as the largest pre-college STEAM competition in the world with 1,800 students competing from 75 countries and territories.
Amelie presented her research, a continuation of her project from last year’s ISEF, to prove algal biofuel can be produced in American Samoa to replace diesel fuel.
She explained that she took the research to the next level to find out what region in American Samoa could produce algal biofuel most efficiently, which can help lower production costs and increase algae growth.
She also created a computer program that could successfully search and display evapotranspiration rates. 
The young scientist shared that she had the opportunity to ask questions to Nobel laureates, founders and CEOs of companies and presidents of prestigious colleges like Caltech in front of a live audience of 2,500 people.
“Overall it was a great experience,” said Amelie, “and I am extremely proud to represent American Samoa and place fourth overall in the world.”
She thanked the Department of Education for funding the trip, their chaperones, principal and teachers for their never ending support.
Photos: Mrs. Karen Dixon
