Microbial Biotechnology

In the field of microbial biotechnology, we study anaerobic microorganisms and bioprocesses. The research aims to generate basic knowledge about microbial metabolism and ecology and to understand connections between diversity, function and process. Our main goal is to produce knowledge of importance for different types of bioprocesses, but also to understand their importance in the environment. Our research ranges from isolation and characterization of new organisms, to operation and optimization of different types of bioprocesses. The characterization of microorganisms takes place both with anaerobic culturing techniques and molecular methods, which we also partly develop within our research group. The research laboratory has different types of bioreactors (1-40L), but we often also collaborate with industry and study full-scale processes.

Biogas - a strong focus area for research.

Here we study both the microorganisms that drive biogas production and evaluate different substrates and reactor types. The research in this area aims to find new solutions for reaching high efficiency of the process as well as to find new applications and / or synergies with other bioprocesses, such as the production of organic acids or feed. Another area of ​​interest is the digestate and various issues related to its use as a fertilizer. The research takes place partly in collaboration with Linköping University and industry within the national platform BRC and with the research institutes RISE and IVL. We also collaborate with other researchers at SLU, who are gathered within a biogas center. In collaboration with researchers at SLU, we also study the methane formation process in various natural environments, such as in the rumen of cows and in rice fields.

Interested in our research?

If you are interested in our research for a collaborative project or to do a master's or exchange project, you are welcome to contact Anna Schnürer (contact information below). You will find more information about our research projects under the tab "ongoing projects" and more information about us can also be found on twitter (@AMB_SLU) or via the biogas blog.