Fuels derived from biological sources, biofuels, are currently receiving a fair amount of press.One of the biggest concerns is always, are biofuels a viable option? With rising oil prices and instability in the Middle East, biofuels, especially those derived from non-food energy sources, are becoming more and more attractive possibilities.As part of an NSF-supported program, we are attempting to enhance lipid production and quantity in algae used for this purpose.These algae can be grown commercially without competition for crop land mass used for food.A beneficial side effect of this process is the inception of new start-up companies to produce these fuels.One example of this is Sapphire Energy Inc.

In a March 8, 2011, news release, Sapphire announced a strategic collaboration with the giant Monsanto Co. In crop development and crop chemical production, Monsanto is at the forefront.Monsanto has been integral in the development new crop plants and chemistry that have made billions of dollars of profit.With an investment from this company, Sapphire is obviously being taken seriously by the business community.In addition, the United States Department of Agriculture and Federal Aviation Administration have teamed up to invest in the production of renewable jet fuels.In two separate tests in January 2009, Continental and Japan Airlines flew pilot missions powered at least partially by jet fuel derived from algae.Mounting evidence attests to the viability of these fuels.

Companies like Sapphire and other new start-ups such as these will require the biological and chemical expertise of new young scientists.It is essential that we now support the education and training of bright enthusiastic students.We can invest in these students future and be at the forefront of this new technology industry or we can be left on the sidelines.It’s our choice.

Guest post by Paul Twigg