This Week At CART – Elliot Khamvilaythong

Hey there! My name is Elliot Khamvilaythong, and I am currently a senior attending my second year at the Center for Advanced Research and Technology. Last year I was in the Forensic Research lab and now I am part of the Biotechnology lab. For the past few days my lab has been preparing to present our Fall Showcase project that we have been working months on. In the lab we were able to research a variety of different biotechnology topics that are being developed now or for the future.  

My group chose to research how Ai technology could be used to create enzymes that break down plastics. I wanted to do this topic because when I was younger I loved the Wild Kratts show, so to be able to research a topic that helps the environment piqued my interest. When researching my topic I learned about the many dangers plastics pose to our world. I found out how 85% of plastics made in a year are thrown away instead of recycled. With their long life spans, plastic that isn’t recycled can contribute to global warming and harm animals. My research also taught me how different industries are making and improving enzymes that are able to break down plastics faster. I can’t wait to present my findings to others!  

I would really recommend students take the Biotechnology lab. The teachers are down to earth and teach at a pace that is easy to follow. The amount of hands-on labs we do in class is something you would never experience in a regular classroom. So, if you are on the fence about signing up for CART, do it. It is a high school experience like no other.