Here biologists and biotechnologists will use the lab to develop more efficient biotechnological production processes and with material researchers will develop antimicrobial products for medical technology, hygiene and healthcare.
‘The investment again demonstrates BASF’s commitment to white biotechnology, one of Germany’s key technologies with vast potential for innovation,’ said Harald Lauke, head of Biological & Effect Systems Research.
‘Furthermore the new lab is an important step on the way to even more globally organised research, and a very good base for successful new alliances in North America.’
BASF has more than 30 years’ experience in white biotechnology, using biotechnology to produce vitamins, enzymes, pharmaceutical intermediates and specialist products for the personal care, food and feed industries. One focus of the research laboratory work is to develop more efficient and resource-conserving production processes.
The use of metabolic engineering is set to enhance the efficiency of the micro-organisms used in these production processes, said BASF.
The lab also aims to gain a detailed understanding of the development of bacterial biofilms, which can cause of life-threatening infections in hospital patients. In cooperation with material researchers, new solutions are being developed to help prevent such infections.
‘In Tarrytown, we have created the foundations for all these research areas,’ commented Markus Pompejus, Head of BASF’s bioactive materials group and in charge of biotechnology research at the new lab. ‘Now it is all about turning our ideas into innovative products and solutions.’
