Microbial Biotechnology Division

The Microbial Biotechnology Division is continuing research on isolation, characterization, and genetic manipulation of cyanobacterial species, and exploring their ability to produce various compounds, including biofuels. Cyanobacteria are Gram (-) autotrophic prokaryotes with oxygenic photosynthesis. This diverse group of microorganisms can be the source of many valuable products, ranging from fatty acids to nutraceuticals, biofuels, and antimicrobials. Currently, genomic information is available for more than 130 cyanobacterial strains representing 14 genera. Many of these species can be genetically manipulated, and some are naturally transformable which further facilitates their genetic engineering to enhance the desirable traits.

In the Microbial Biotechnology Division students work on several projects that apply methods and techniques of biotechnology, molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, and biochemistry. Students are gaining experience in literature review; planning, preparation, and execution of experiments; data collection, analysis, and interpretation. This research also provides further opportunities for the professional interaction with other research groups, preparation and presentation of talks and seminars. 

Students of the Microbial Biotechnology Division presented their work at Harvard University, Arizona Bioindustry Association, GCU Student Research Symposium, and the annual meeting of Arizona/Southern Nevada chapter of the American Society for Microbiology. Several members of the Division became Helios Scholars at the Translational Genomics Institute (TGen). Student involvement in the project is a valuable venue to develop strong research skills, increase competitiveness in the internship and job market, and engage with the broader public and researchers in other STEM fields. 

Affiliated Investigator: Click investigators name to read bio