Innovative approaches using biological systems and processes for mitigating the challenges in biotechnology and the environment

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New challenges have emerged for humanity in the 21st century which include "carbon capture", "nitrogen cycle and nutrient management", "clean and safe water" and "engineering better medicines and technology" as some of the significant issues of concern. In addition to the environmental and societal benefits, better and novel solutions to these specific challenges can lead to the generation of new industry, spin-offs, jobs and other activities over both the short and long term. In this proposed research program, which builds on existing research strengths, and the principles of biochemical and bio-environmental engineering, innovative approaches are proposed in the areas of health, nutrient management and clean water. Three specific projects are proposed. The first project utilizes a fluidized ion exchange technology as an alternative approach to overcome challenges related to the refolding of recombinant proteins. The second project focuses on removal of nutrients (ammonium, nitrates and phosphates) using a combination of ion exchange and halophilic microalgae. The third project addresses the important and difficult area of metal removal from saline waste waters and proposes to initiate a new direction of research at UWO with significant potential to address the issues of "clean and safe water". The proposed research will train 6 HQP (4 PhD and 2 MESc) over the duration of this study. The proposed research has potential to attract new funding and collaborations from Industry and other government agencies both nationally and Internationally.