When discovery ignites debate

Troy Benn learned valuable lessons when discoveries from his research into potential impacts of nanomaterials used in consumer products generated news headlines – and reactions from industry and policymakers.

Benn, a former IGERT in Urban Ecology fellow who recently earned his doctorate in environmental engineering at ASU, is a postdoctoral research associate in the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, one of ASU’s Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

News of the results of his simple examination of what happened to nanosilver particles used in some brands of socks ballooned into a widespread debate about nanotechnology, environmental policy and government regulation of industry.

Benn said the experience taught him why it’s important for engineers and scientists to educate the public about their research and contribute constructively to public policy debates.

In an article in Science Careers online (affiliated with the leading journal Science), he talks about the reactions to his research and how they sparked his interest in how researchers can help society grapple with complex and controversial issues.