Building on a deep interest in synthetic biology, the rising Brown University senior spent his summer helping to develop a sustainable alternative to arsenic detection and removal methods.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] - Eric Sorge isn't afraid of GMOs - and he doesn't want anyone else to be, either.
Despite scientific research demonstrating their safety, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are often met with public opposition, skepticism and fear. But Sorge, a rising Brown University senior concentrating in biochemistry, says most concerns are scientifically unfounded and that tinkering with microbial genetics may provide solutions for a more equitable, sustainable future.
"We can use biology to tackle the types of issues we'd normally take on in really resource-intensive, environmentally harmful ways," Sorge said. "I like to imagine a future where people don't see 'GMO' as a bad word and instead are inspired by the fact that we can leverage microorganisms in ways that are beneficial to ourselves and the environment."
The transformative power of GMOs is the cornerstone of a summer research project Sorge has been conducting with Professor of Chemistry and Engineering Vicki Colvin in an effort to design genetically modified bacteria that can filter toxic chemicals out of drinking water.
