Laboratory of Algal, Artificial Intelligence, Synthetic, and Systems Biology, (A2S2 Group)
Research group of Kourosh Salehi-Ashtiani at New York University Abu Dhabi
About Us

Welcome to the Laboratory of Algal, Artificial Intelligence, Synthetic, and Systems Biology, where we push the frontiers of biotechnology by integrating next-generation computational tools with advanced algal research. We are pioneering new methods in genomics, proteomics, and metabolic engineering, leveraging AI and machine learning to tackle complex biological questions and drive sustainable solutions.

Our published work highlights our commitment to innovation:

AlgaGPT: A transformer-based model for efficient decontamination of algal sequencing data

LA4SR: Generative AI illuminating the dark proteome

By combining these cutting-edge tools with large-scale computational modeling and synthetic biology, we uncover novel pathways and engineer enhanced productivity in various organisms—extending beyond algae to broader applications in human health and environmental research. We actively share our work on open platforms such as GitHub and Hugging Face, fostering collaboration and accelerating the development of transformative biotechnologies for a more sustainable future.

Projects

Artificial Intelligence

  • AlgaGPT: A Transformer-Based Model for Efficient Decontamination of Algal Sequencing Data
  • LA4SR: illuminating the dark proteome with generative AI
  • AlphaFold Protein Structure Predictions and AI
  • ORFeome and AI

Systems Biology

  • Chlamydomonas metabolic network reconstruction and analysis
  • Algal and plant stress responses
  • Algal interactomes
  • Therapeutic target gene prediction in non-algal systems

Algal Genomics and Biofuel

  • Algal bio-prospecting in the UAE and their genomics
  • Mutagenesis and selection for increased lipid production in algae
  • The 100 and 500 algal genome projects

Synthetic Biology

  • Construction of Chlamydomonas regulatory ORFeome
  • Improving diatom photosynthetic efficiency
  • Construction of synthetic algal chromosomes
  • Synthetic ORFeomes