QUEEN'S University is to be part of a UK-wide centre to boost links between academia and industry in the emerging field of synthetic biology, a sector described as 'the next industrial revolution'.
Synthetic biology involves the manufacturing of tiny devices from cells. These devices have a huge number of applications, from producing new, more sustainable fuels to monitoring and improving our health.
Queen's is one of 18 universities and 13 industrial partners (including the research arms of Microsoft, Shell and GlaxoSmithKline) involved in the SynbiCITE Innovation and Knowledge Centre.
Led by Imperial College London, the centre's main aim is to translate research in synthetic biology into industrial process and products.
Professor Christine Maggs, head of the School of Biological Sciences, will lead Queen's involvement in SynbiCITE, which will also involve the Schools of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and Pharmacy.
She said: "Synthetic biology offers potentially huge benefits for health, agriculture, food production, the environment and the production of chemicals. Its applications are limitless.
"At Queen's we undertake cutting-edge research in biocatalysis, which is a core element of synthetic biology.
"This involves using natural substances like enzymes or cells to speed up chemical reactions."
Professor Chris Hardacre, head of the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, said: "Our involvement in this project will allow Queen's to take the science of synthetic biology out of academia and into practice, providing opportunities for local companies to access the expertise within the SynbiCITE centre."
Synthetic biology has been identified by David Willetts, the British minister for universities and science, as one of the eight great technologies the UK needs to prioritise.
He said: "Synthetic biology has huge potential for our economy and society in so many areas, from life sciences to agriculture.
"But to realise this potential we need to ensure researchers and business work together. This new Innovation and Knowledge Centre will help advance scientific knowledge and turn cutting edge research into commercial success."