P2P: Paper 2 Plastics

Since 2015, the “Paper to Plastics” program has united the fields of chemistry and biology to engage young female and underrepresented minorities in scientific research. The scientific goal of the project is to recycle unwanted paper to the biodegradable polymer poly(lactic acid). During the eight-week program, high school students are exposed to a real research environment and work closely with undergraduates who guide them through the technical aspects of the research and serve as role models.

This program will not be offered in summer of 2024; however, we hope to revive this outreach effort in future summers.