Start spreading the news: BASF opens new biotech research centre in New York
The company has more than three decades of experience in white biotechnology, using these methods to produce products such as vitamins, enzymes, pharmaceutical intermediates and specialties for the cosmetics, personal care, food and feed industries.
In the new laboratory, situated in Tarrytown NY, biologists and biotechnologists will work to develop more efficient biotechnological production processes and, together with material researchers, develop the new antimicrobial products.
Commitment to research
"The investment again demonstrates BASF's commitment to white biotechnology, one of this century's key technologies with vast potential for innovation,” said Dr Harald Lauke, head of Biological & Effect Systems Research.
“Furthermore the new lab is an important step on the way to an even more globally organized research, and a very good base for successful new alliances in North America," he added.
According to the speciality chemicals supplier, one focus of the research laboratory work is to develop even more efficient and resource-conserving production processes.
Develop understanding
The use of metabolic engineering, which is the targeted modification of metabolism, is set to enhance the efficiency of the microorganisms used in these production processes.
Another important focus of the lab is to get a detailed understanding of the development of bacterial biofilms.
"In Tarrytown, we have created the foundations for all these research areas," commented Dr Markus Pompejus, head of the bioactive materials group and in charge of the biotechnology research in Tarrytown. "Now it is all about turning our ideas into innovative products and solutions."
