PROJECT IDEAS
Light detecting biofilm, UT Austin
PROJECT 1 - Bacterial Shading
Inspired the Bacterial Photography, an iGem competition proposal in which sequences from a cyanobacteria and E.coli are combined to create a new
photoreceptive E.coli that responds to the presence or absence of light to reveal a message. I am interested in the possibility of using similar
techniques to create light sensors that perhaps reveal different colors or patterns depending on the amount of light/UV. The idea also draws from
Corals ability to generate their own fluorescent pigment sunblock since intense UV can damage coral and the symbiotic algae that live within it.
There are several scales where this ability to detect and change to light would be desirable. Could it be used at a building scale to create dynamic
shading systems in windows. Can it be used on building facades to prevent the degradation of materials. Could you use it in as a wearable to remind
people to wear sunblock?
Laura Maria Gonzalez
March 16, 2021
Coral fluorescents, barrierreef.org
PROJECT 2 - The Living Lamp
Using geobacter, an anaerobic bacteria, to create living lamp. Inspired by the work of Teresa Van Dongen whom creates light installations powered
entirely by the micro-organisms since they output electrons as a waste product. The idea is through feeding and nurturing the bacteria, with some
tap water, other nutrients, and a bit of vinegar each week they can provides you with light. An edit here might be to be able to visualize different
flows of electrons. so using color to display activity of the geobacter (electricity flow, happiness level?)
Electric Life, Teresa Van Dongen