Microbe Hackers

Our Research

The Microbe Hackers stream focuses on synthetic biology: the genetic engineering or modifications of organisms for a novel purpose or function, hence the “hackers.” And, we primarily work with bacteria, hence the “microbe.” Researchers in our stream are involved in all steps of the research process, from project ideation and finding new directions to go in, to performing all of the research experiments, and to writing up their results for presentations or as parts of research publications. We design plasmids, DNA sequences, primers, and simulate cloning reactions in silico.  Furthermore, we test genetically modified bacteria and conduct bioassays to confirm if DNA sequences alter bacterial behavior.

Our Strategy

Our abbreviated mission statement is, “our students are our product.” We aim to prepare our researchers to be ready for upper division UT courses, further education, additional research experiences, or the work force. Our research curriculum is designed to emphasize student growth and learning, both at the bench and on a personal level. Students use scientific equipment (e.g., micropipette, incubator, spectrophotometer, centrifuge, autoclave etc.) and participate in experimental design, project management, and collaborative research. In addition, we develop transferable skills, such as data analysis, scientific communication (verbal & written), peer-review, and navigating scientific literature. 

Our Impact

The research of the Microbe Hackers is focused on improving and expanding synthetic biology research and knowledge. Our cyanobacteria biosensors—or biological systems (usually cells) that can specifically detect a molecule and then report that back to the user (us)—can be especially useful for environmental purposes. Some of our research is directed towards the development of more efficient and inexpensive biosensors than current existing methods.

Our newest Bee Project aims to gain a better understanding of Colony Collapse Disorder, which is when a beehive loses many of its worker bees. By studying the function of genes in the bee genome, we can potentially mitigate this issue. 

We also develop some of our research for educational purposes so that high school students throughout Texas are exposed to the exciting field of Synthetic Biology.