5th December 2014.
Review
The seminar was hosted by Mike Allen of Plymouth University who is currently doing research in conjunction with the AVARICE project. The AVARICE project focuses on the use of algae as part of algal based technology for use in the production of biofuels, as well as a natural form of bioremediation for polluted waterways.
Work initially started in an ongoing process of analysing the largely unknown algal genomes, where it was discovered that the vast majority of algal genes were novel in their function and design. The team has also been responsible for utilising genetically modified (GM) algae for synthesising Omega-3 fatty acids as well as alternative fuels.
Algal biofuels are however currently limited compared to other biofuels in that they are energy intensive and more expensive, but do overcome some of the limitations observed when using plants as a potential source for alternative fuel production.
Algae have also been show to successfully bioremediated waters polluted by acid mine drainage (AMD).
The AVARICE project is also currently working on a vortex bioreactor utilising algae as a bioremediation tool to clean and disinfect polluted water supplies, particularly in less economically developed countries.
Opinions
I personally found Mike and the rest of the teams work to be very interesting and something which I myself would have an interest in pursuing as a career. This area of research compliments my degree well, biotechnology, and it is an area that I would find very rewarding, given the chance to improve so many peoples lives.
Career
I would like to find out more about this field of study, both the engineering and the genetic modification of organisms for industrial use and societal benefit as it is an area of work that I’d be interested in forging a career.
BangorBiologySeminars 