About SYNBIOCHEM

The University of Manchester’s, Synthetic Biology Research Centre for Synthetic Biology of Fine and Speciality Chemicals (SYNBIOCHEM), funded by BBSRC/EPSRC (2014-21) is developing new faster, more predictable and reliable “greener” routes to fine and speciality chemicals production.

The Centre’s unique infrastructure is underpinned with chemical expertise for fine and speciality chemicals production which is delivering solutions for the production of commercial flavours and fragrances, drug intermediates and valuable chemicals.

PEOPLE

SYNBIOCHEM brings together interdisciplinary expertise from across the University of Manchester. A large team of senior researchers are delivery the Design/Build/Test/Learn platforms and projects in Responsible Research and Innovation.

RESEARCH

Over the last 5 years the Centre has established an exciting array of experimental capabilities. We have successfully integrated our platforms into a cohesive Design/Build/Test/Learn pipeline for fine and speciality chemicals production. The pipeline has been piloted in a series of grand challenge core projects for important chemical and materials targets.

RRI

The Responsible Research and Innovation platform is developing major programmes on the emerging societal, ethical and regulatory aspects faced by SynBio, rapidly advancing new technology. Work programmes led by social scientists and economists include real-time assessment and anticipation of research and innovation trajectories, deliberation and reflection, and collaborative development.

COLLABORATION

SYNBIOCHEM is collaborating to drive academic discovery and translate new knowledge and processes towards industrial exploitation. Advances in Synthetic Biology will lead to new sustainable production processes with application across chemicals, materials, pharmaceutical, agriculture and energy sectors.

SYNTHETIC BIOLOGY

Synthetic Biology is an emerging science that has the capacity to transform the UK and European industrial landscape in sustainable manufacturing process across all industrial sectors, including healthcare, sustainable energy, green chemistry, pharmaceuticals, novel materials and bioremediation and to address major societal grand challenges.

MIB

SYNBIOCHEM is hosted by the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), a leading industry interfaced institute driving bio-based chemicals synthesis in the UK. The MIB enjoys a world-class physical infrastructure and an established ‘open’ collaborative culture with strong leadership and stakeholder engagement that is embedded in its foundational and translational multidisciplinary science programmes.