Of the nutrients present in soil, 18 have been identified as essential for plant growth. These include phosphate, nitrate, potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper and boron, which are necessary in different quantities. To measure soil health for plant growth, it is important to measure nutrient levels within the soil and ensure it remains in the necessary range for plant growth. In light of this, we propose to engineer Shewanella oneidensis to create an electrochemical sensor platform to monitor nutrient levels in soil. This platform will hinge on engineering the EET pathway of S. oneidensis such that electron transfer occurs in the presence of and proportionally to the amount of a certain nutrient, allowing electrical signal to be used as a proxy for nutrient quantity.

Through SuperUROP, I am looking for the opportunity to immerse myself in research. I want to apply the theoretical knowledge I have gained from coursework, as well as the technical skills earned through past UROP projects and internships, to carry through an engineering-based project.