The Marine Microbiome – A treasure trove of scientific and industrial potential

Lynn Paterson

Press/Media: Research

Description

The exhibition hall in particular showcased key outputs and ‘hardware’ of the MaCuMBA project that have high potential industrial relevance, and are prime candidates for practical commercial development and applications. Researchers were on hand to demonstrate and explain how the European marine biotech industry could benefit from the latest research results in the area. One example is the ‘optical tweezers’ developed by MaCuMBA partners Heriot-Watt University (Edinburgh, UK). This state of the art instrument is capable of isolating single cells out of a mixture of cells. They have also developed an integrated optical-microfluidic device to rapidly isolate a large number of cells based on electrokinetic approaches. Start-up companies were also present, among them CellDeg, who showcased their novel high density cultivators, demonstrating live how photoautotrophic cultures can rapidly grow in a membrane based cultivation system. One of the highlights of the plenary session was the screening of the MaCuMBA short film. “Revealing the Secrets of Marine Microbes” was produced by the creative team at eCOAST Marine Research who shadowed the work of MaCuMBA researchers in Texel, The Netherlands. This video is ideal for educational use and is available to view and download on the MaCuMBA project website: http://macumbaproject.eu/macumba-disclaimer/macumba-news/1639-new-video-revealing-thesecrets-of-marine-microbes

Period	1 Jul 2016

Media contributions

Title	The Marine Microbiome – A treasure trove of scientific and industrial potential
Degree of recognition	International
Media name/outlet	Macumba project press release
Media type	Print
Country/Territory	United Kingdom
Date	1/07/16
Description	The worlds of science and industry gathered in Berlin, Germany, from 27-30 June 2016 to discuss the untapped biotechnological potential of the ocean’s microorganisms at the ‘Marine Microbiome – Discovery & Innovation’ conference. Hosted by the EC FP7-funded MaCuMBA project, this joint industry conference and open science meeting brought together experts from across the globe to discuss how novel research discoveries in the field of marine biotechnology can greatly improve Europe’s capacity to generate new commercial opportunities. The event was held at the Science and Technology Park Berlin-Adlershof and consisted of a one-day industry conference followed by a two-day open science meeting. Most attendees participated in both events, taking advantage of the excellent opportunity for industry and science stakeholders to exchange experiences and generate new ideas to drive this important area forward. ‘Marine Microbiome – Discovery & Innovation’ represented the culmination of the four-year MaCuMBA project, which has focused on increasing the rate of isolation of marine microorganisms using novel high throughput techniques for improved isolation efficiency and cultivation of marine microorganisms, and screening for bioactive compounds and biotechnological applications. With a diverse and comprehensive three-day programme, the event brought together more than 30 high-level experts and over 120 attendees from 17 nations, including numerous European countries, the USA, Israel, South Africa, Mexico and Ecuador. The conference activities included round table and moderated panel discussions; an interactive industry exhibition; one-to-one meetings; a plenary programme with key speakers presenting the latest trends and main issues; and relaxed informal networking opportunities. All activities were designed to provide a platform for research and industry alike to diversify their cross-sectorial knowledge, strengthen their existing partnerships and build new opportunities.
URL	www.macumbaproject.eu/images/MACUMBA/Media/Press_Release/D9.25-Press-release_Marine_Microbiome_Final.pdf
Persons	Lynn Paterson

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