This research develops a membrane-based wastewater treatment system that selectively supports nitrogen-removing bacteria without energy-intensive aeration or added organic matter. By enabling efficient biological nitrogen removal, the approach reduces greenhouse gas emissions, lowers costs, and makes advanced wastewater treatment more accessible—protecting aquatic ecosystems and water quality.

This research explores how bacteria choose between free-swimming and biofilm lifestyles. Studying Vibrio cholerae reveals that bacterial populations hedge their bets—some cells disperse while others remain protected. This collective decision-making helps bacteria survive threats and plays a key role in infection and transmission.

Bacteria can cause major industrial failures through metal corrosion, but most bacteria are harmless or beneficial. This research engineers protective bacterial strains to prevent corrosion by sealing cracks, forming biofilms, and outcompeting harmful microbes—transforming bacteria into a sustainable defense for metal infrastructure like pipelines, bridges, and buildings.