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Harnessing microbiology to tackle global challenges

Two people in white lab coats working in a laboratory

Engineering Microbial Interactions

Synthetic Biology, Biotechnology

Microbial engineering harnesses the natural abilities of microbes for innovative applications in health, energy and the environment. Researchers at Norwich Research Park focus on synthetic biology and biotechnology to manipulate and control microbial processes, such as producing bioenergy, recycling waste or synthesising valuable natural products.

This research spans atomic, molecular and cellular levels, unravelling mechanisms that govern microbial physiology, metabolism and interspecies communication. For example, engineered microbes can be used to produce pharmaceuticals, degrade pollutants or enhance agricultural productivity. By designing synthetic microbial communities, researchers aim to address challenges in sustainability and industrial efficiency.

Collaborations with industrial partners foster the commercialisation of microbial technologies. This research not only advances scientific understanding but also contributes to economic growth and solutions to global challenges such as climate change and antimicrobial resistance.