Metagenomics is the DNA sequence identification of all organisms from the environment, including Boz Institute targets – the Tijuana River Estuary, wastewater, and local residential communities. With estimates of trillions of microorganisms inhabiting the earth, and less than 0.001% cultured or DNA sequence identified, the possibilities are endless. Using next-generation sequencing, our metagenomics team tests the utility of microorganisms as bioremediation tools against environmental pollutants, and studies antimicrobial resistance mechanisms and natural product discoveries for therapeutics. Can you transform global health and well-being through metagenomics?

Our scientists are pre-college and college students worried about and committed to improving environmental health in their communities. This microorganism diversity, or lack of, can suggest the presence of chemical/biological hazards in our communities. We strive to bring awareness, at the scientific and political levels by creating an open-source, interactive genome/chemical mapping tool powered by our citizen scientists.

*For more about this project, contact ken@bozinstitute.org