(442c) Synthetic Biology for Energy Applications

Significant effort has been devoted to developing technologies that effectively mimic biological processes, but these methods often fail to replicate the efficiency and selectivity of native systems. We have found that, by combining electrochemistry with the inherent activity of microbes, we can improve upon conventional technologies for sustainable energy production and environmental remediation. Using synthetic biology, we can engineer microbes to both degrade and detect harmful environmental pollutants, synthesize catalysts for greenhouse gas valorization, and perform green chemical conversions. Through these technologies, we have consistently found that the combination of synthetic biology and chemistry affords advantages beyond the capabilities of either technology alone.