Plant and Algal Biotechnology is interested in developing synthetic biology tools to engineer photosynthetic organisms. Research in Cambridge is tackling several areas of plant and algal biotechnology, including the highly complex issue of bioenergy, with a holistic approach. We are bringing together a wide spectrum of experts, including biologists (plant scientists, biochemists and conservation scientists), engineers, chemical engineers and economists. In addition to bioenergy research we are interested in development of higher value compounds and chemicals using plants and algae as sustainable bio-factories.
Plant and algal biotechnology research in Cambridge brings together molecular biologists, physiologists, chemists, engineers and chemical engineers to facilitate the development of future biotechnology and bioenergy solutions. The University's researchs collaborate with industrial partners to test ideas.
Research groups working on Algal Biotechnology:
-
Professor Alison Smith's Lab, Department of Plant Sciences: Working on algal synthetic biology, algal metabolism and synthetic ecology.
-
Professor Chris Howe's Lab, Department of Biochemistry: Working on algal photosynthesis.
Current work falls into the following main topics:
-
The development of tools in algal molecular and synthetic biology for accumulation of desired products.
-
The production of algal biomass, including sequestration of carbon dioxide from flue gases, and treatment of wastewater.
- Use of cyanobacteria for the production of bio-photovoltaic panels.
We are also actively involved in increasing both energy awareness and public understanding of the opportunities and challenges biotechnology and bioenergy provide.
The current academic members of the consortium:
- Professor Alison Smith, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge
- Professor Chris Howe, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge
- Dr Paolo Bombelli, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge
- Dr Matthew Davey, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge
- Dr Stuart Scott, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge
- Prof John Dennis, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Cambridge
- Dr Otti Croze, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge
External collaborators include:
-
Professor Saul Purton, University College London
-
Professor Johnathan Napier, Rothamsted Research