We are proud of the research undertaken in our world-class facilities. Below is an overview of some of the studies being done in our labs. Click on the appropriate links to find out more about these projects.

Marine Micro-algae

The world's oceans contain our largest untapped biological resources. Marine micro-algae is one of these resources, and their derived products have already provided dynamic and viable industries. These include the production of: carotenoid pigments, oligo- and polysaccharides, antibiotic agents, UV-absorbing compounds, and metal sequestration agents.

Biomass Glassification

Biomass is the most versatile non-petroleum energy resource available - it can be burned for direct heating in various industrial and domestic applications or for producing steam to generate electricity; it can be converted into gaseous or liquid fuels for use in all of the above processes or converted into transportation fuels. Biomass production and conversion activities stimulate local economies by providing employment opportunities, and product and market opportunities for agribusiness.

Sensor Development

The development of new sensing technologies for physical, chemical, and biological quantities may allow advances in the understanding and control of biological processes. Development is underway on sensors which may have a variety of applications, including 1) measurement of humidity and soil moisture for controlling irrigation and environment; 2) continuous measurement of dissolved gases to monitor physical and biological processes such as carbon dioxide sequestration and denitrification; 3) miniature immobilized enzyme sensors for medical, agricultural, and industrial applications; 4) new transduction mechanisms for immunosorbent and nucleic acid capture assays.