Synthetic Biology and Metabolic Engineering
The natural world is a testament to the vast potential inherent in the genetic code at the core of all living organisms. Rapid advances in synthetic biology and metabolic engineering are allowing biologists and engineers to tap into this potential in unprecedented ways, enabling the development of new biological processes and organisms that are designed to serve specific purposes – whether converting biomass to chemicals, fuels, and materials, producing new therapeutic drugs, or protecting the body against harm.
Systems Biology and Computational Modelling and Simulation of Chemical and Biological Systems
For improved healthcare and bio-based manufacturing, it is essential to understand how biology and chemistry work together. Systems biology and computational modelling and simulation are playing increasingly important roles in designing therapeutics, materials, and processes, which are highly efficient in achieving their design goals, while minimally impacting on human health and the environment.
Utilization of Carbon Dioxide as a Resource
Carbon is at the heart of all life on earth. Yet, managing carbon dioxide releases is one of the greatest social, political, and economic challenges of our time. An emerging innovative approach to carbon dioxide management involves transforming it from a liability to a resource. Novel catalysts, based on nanostructured materials, can potentially transform carbon dioxide to high value hydrocarbons and other carbon-containing molecules that could be used as new building blocks for the chemical industry as cleaner and more sustainable alternatives to petrochemicals.
Wireless Power
Society is deeply reliant on electrically powered devices. Yet, a significant limitation in their continued development and utility is the need to be attached to the electricity grid by wire – either permanently or through frequent battery recharging. Emerging approaches to wireless power transmission will free electrical devices from having to be physically plugged in, and are poised to have as significant an impact on personal electronics as Wi-Fi had on Internet use.