# Conductive microbial consortia for accelerating interspecies extracellular metabolism and living electronics

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Yale University (CT) · $796,000

## Abstract

Every living cell needs to eliminate excess electrons when metabolism converts nutrients into energy. That, in essence, is why we breathe oxygen, which acts as a terminal electron acceptor. However, to survive in harsh environments lacking such soluble, ingestible molecules, the common soil bacterium Geobacter has evolved hair-like filaments that function as “nanowires,” to export electrons to extracellular acceptors and syntrophic partner species in a process called Direct Interspecies Electron Transfer (DIET). Exactly how microbes perform DIET has remained a mystery. Understanding DIET could help mitigate environmental changes, pollution, and the energy crisis, as DIET-performing microbes drive various globally-important phenomena, such as carbon & mineral cycling, bioremediation, corrosion, and chemical or biofuel production. Nanowires and wired cells could also be used for sustainable and living electronics applications. In addition, this highly interdisciplinary project will train students from diverse research backgrounds to harness the power of electric microbes in providing environmental solutions. It will prepare the next generation of interdisciplinary scientists at the interface of biology, physics, chemistry, data science, and engineering. The PI will leverage local infrastructure to encourage the active participation of students from diverse educational backgrounds through research programs, seminars, bootcamps, local community and outreach events for students.


## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2522073
- **Awardee organization:** Yale University (CT)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** FL6GV84CKN57
- **PI:** Nikhil S Malvankar
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** NANOSCALE BIO CORE
- **Estimated total:** $796,000
- **Funds obligated:** $796,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/15/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2522073

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2522073, Conductive microbial consortia for accelerating interspecies extracellular metabolism and living electronics. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2522073. Licensed CC0.

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