Some groups question the safety of synthetic biology. What is Joule's stance?

Joule conducts genome engineering of naturally-occurring photosynthetic microorganisms. Our technology optimizes their function in an industrial process, but does not fundamentally alter the life form itself, nor does it "create" life. The practice has been safely and productively applied for more than 30 years in well-known processes using fermentative bacteria and yeasts to make amino acids, antibiotics, fuels and other value-added chemicals.

This differs from synthetic biology in that the goals are not to reduce biological systems to devices, or to design new forms of life. We are redirecting the natural metabolism for the production of specific molecules.

Joule applies genome engineering using an environmentally safe microorganism under standards recognized by the National Institute of Health. Our goal is to use naturally-occurring photosynthesis to achieve sustainable environmental and societal benefits.