Linked to the biotechnology sector, we aim to develop algae and their derivatives into innovative green and clean technologies.
Innovative green and clean technologies
Algae holds great promise for tackling the global need for sustainability due to its ability to fix atmospheric or industrial carbon and result in biomass that can be utilised for alternative manufacturing feedstock including cosmetics, plastics, nutraceuticals, agricultural feed, and pharmaceuticals. Algae can be grown in various water sources (fresh, saline, brine, and waste), and can act as environmental bio-remediators, resulting in the treatment of wastewater.
C3 represents one of the world’s largest groups of integrated algae specialists, with a team of collective expertise in microfluidics, bio-optics, algal physiology, robotics, natural-product chemistry, polymer chemistry, phenomics, mutagenesis, and genetic and metabolic engineering. We aim to harness the power of algae together with robotics and artificial intelligence to decarbonise key manufacturing and utility sectors of the economy and hasten the global move away from fossil fuels as an energy and raw materials source.
Feature projects
Deep green biotech Hub
The NSW Deep Green Biotech Hub (DGBH) connects NSW-based businesses and community members with cutting-edge algae biotechnologies and innovation support, so we can build a deep green future, together. Our work is made possible by the Investment NSW Boosting Business Innovation Program.
Algae biotech launches on a mission to tackle climate change
Newly founded biotech company Algenie will commercialise an innovative algae growth platform capable of producing the building blocks for sustainable plastics and fuels.
Taking a bite out of carbon emissions
A research partnership between the UTS Climate Change Cluster and v2food is exploring ways that algae can transform the way we eat - and provide solutions to the climate crisis.
Expertise
We conduct interdisciplinary research and bring together knowledge and expertise in algal physiology, genetic and metabolic engineering, physics, chemistry and biochemistry to drive innovation in the following areas:
CULTIVATION, SCREENING & PRODUCTION
Development of microalgal biomass cultivation systems; biomass harvesting, separation and purification processing methods; genetic and molecular engineering; photobioreactor design; analytical techniques; and sensor technologies.
NOVEL FOODS
Development of a range of new algae-based proteins, carbohydrates, oils, flavourings, and colourants for use in human commercial food and beverage production.
AGRICULTURE AND AQUACULTURE
Development of products and services that support agricultural practices such as fertilisers, animal and aquaculture feeds, nutritional additives and biostimulants.
SEAWEED
Development of sustainable seaweed biotechnology and aquaculture techniques (protoplast/tissue culture/sporulation) for elite germplasm and mass production of seaweeds suitable for biorefinary and value added products developments.
BIOPLASTICS
Development of algae-based biodegradable plastics.
REMEDIATION
Bioremediation of organic and inorganic pollutants, wastewater and solid waste treatment solutions.
Support Us
If your passion aligns with the Algal Biosystems and Biotechnology team’s, there is opportunity to be involved.
Opportunities for Impact
Our research addresses some of the biggest environmental and societal issues facing Australia and other countries in a changing climate, including food and energy security, sustainability and ecological resilience; and global health.
Learn more about our research track record, and how you can help us make real research impact here:
Find out more
The Algal biosystems and biotechnology team
Contact
Dr Mathieu Pernice
Phone: 02 9514 4203
Email: climatechangecluster@uts.edu.au