Research in the Swette Center seeks to gain deep understanding of the microorganisms and how they work together in microbial communities. The researchers apply the most advanced tools of molecular microbial ecology, chemistry, microscopy, and mathematical modeling so they think like the microorganisms. Armed with this deep understanding, the researchers then apply advanced engineering methods to create systems that work for the microorganisms so that they work for us. This approach establishes a win-win partnership between the uniquely talented workers – the microorganisms – and the wise managers – the environmental biotechnologists.