Our research focuses on the development of new molecular tools and engineering strategies to produce chemicals and materials from renewable resources by bacterial hosts. Lignin is a good example of such abundant, but recalcitrant and underutilized resource. We are particularly interested in how the diverse metabolism of bacteria can be leveraged for optimal utilization and valorization of sustainable feedstock.
Research focus and goals
To engineer and optimize the bacterial metabolism, we employ a variety of techniques including evolution-based methods, synthetic biology, metabolic and protein engineering, and synergistic microbial consortia. Starting from molecular level studies, we aim to contribute to establishing more sustainable and environmentally friendly production processes, making most of the rich variety what nature provides.
Leader
Suvi Santala
Academy Research Fellow
Suvi Santala
