Advances in Bioremediation

Catalog description

This course provides an in depth analysis of the diverse ways in which organisms are used to physically remove or metabolize (and co-metabolize) various pollutants in the environment. We will examine multiple forms of bioremediation including: bacterial degradation of organic pollutants, biotransformation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, bioremediation of microplastics, and phytoremediation of pesticides and heavy metals. Throughout the semester, we will evaluate the promise of such technologies as well as the current obstacles to realizing their potential. We will read and analyze research journal papers related to bioremediation and discuss tools used to document success in the field. Additionally, we will examine current efforts to “design” organisms with enhanced bioremediation capabilities and discuss the use of genetically modified organisms in field applications.