NMSU part of algae-based fuel project

LAS CRUCES (AP) - New Mexico State University researchers are part of a consortium of universities and research institutions that have been awarded $44 million to commercialize algae into biofuel.

The U.S. Department of Energy awarded the stimulus funds to the National Alliance for Advanced Biofuels and Bioproducts, led by the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center in St. Louis.

NMSU says an algae-based fuel would not affect a major U.S. Food source - unlike ethanol, which is produced mainly from corn.

College of Business assistant professor Meghan Starbuck says part of the university's role will focus on sustainability.

She says that's one of the project's overriding themes.

NMSU's research will include demonstration test beds, characterizing fuels, resource management and economic analysis.