Research Report - Superflares; nano-bugs that eat CO2; and more from CU Boulder

CU Boulder researchers have developed bio-hybrid organisms capable of using airborne carbon dioxide and nitrogen to produce a variety of plastics and fuels, a promising step toward low-cost carbon sequestration and eco-friendly manufacturing. Read more at Colorado Public Radio.

FUNDING: NREL / DOE

Massive bursts of solar radiation known as superflares could occur on Earth’s sun within the next century, new CU Boulder research finds. The resulting energy surge could cause havoc for satellite communications and power grids. Read more at Forbes Magazine.

FUNDING:  NASA

CU Boulder researchers have identified an anti-inflammatory fat in a soil-dwelling bacterium that may be responsible for quelling stress-related disorders. The discovery brings scientists one step closer to developing a microbe-based “stress vaccine.” Read more at The Denver Post.

FUNDING: NIH

CU Boulder engineers have developed a pill-sized robot that can navigate the squishy and often-unpredictable terrain of the intestines and other internal organs. The devices could eventually help screen for cancer and other illnesses. Read more about the research.

FUNDING: NSF