Centre for Synthetic Biology

 

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Synthetic Biology is a rapidly emerging discipline at the interface between biological, chemical, physical and engineering sciences. It focuses on foundational research as well as on applications.

The ultimate aim is to revolutionize the (ab initio) design of cellular systems or novel functionalities within these systems and of bio-inspired devices.

Examples are:

• The (re)design and engineering of microorganisms for synthesis of new drugs, chemicals and fuels;
• The design and construction of novel bio-inspired sensing, signal transduction and transport devices.

The Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB) incorporates advanced knowledge in molecular biology, bioinformatics, molecular chemistry, physics and engineering to create new functions and materials. Engineering principles are applied to (re)design and build bio-inspired devices, ranging from diagnostic sensors to sophisticated drug delivery systems to cell-based chemical conversion factories. Besides foundational research on biologically complex systems, the CSB aims to develop new educational programs to train the next generation of students into ‘biological engineers’ and to establish an innovation network with industrial partners.