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Laboratory of Bioprocess Engineering

Description of the group

The research group focuses on the development of innovative, microbiological technologies for environmental remediation and revitalization. One of the main areas of interest is bioremediation – removing contaminants such as heavy metals, petroleum-derived substances, and pesticides from soil and water using selected microorganisms. The team develops both in situ and ex situ methods, ensuring effective and eco-friendly solutions for polluted industrial and agricultural sites.

Another key research direction is waste management, such as sewage sludge, through optimization of the composting process, including selection of microbial strains supporting organic matter decomposition. The goal is to improve the efficiency of these processes and adapt them to industrial conditions and local environmental needs.

The group is also actively involved in developing bioproducts that support biological soil restoration, improving soil quality and microbiological activity. It designs new biofertilizers, biopesticides, and plant growth biostimulants for use in sustainable agriculture.

The group combines knowledge in microbiology, biotechnology, environmental engineering, and agriculture to create solutions with high implementation potential.

Research activity

  • Remediation of soils contaminated with heavy metals, petroleum compounds, pesticides;
  • Waste management (including sewage sludge);
  • Biological restoration of agricultural soils and promotion of plant growth;
  • Optimization of the composting process;
  • Development of biofertilizers, biopesticides, and biostimulants.

Team leader

Prof. Łukasz Drewniak

A microbiologist and environmental biotechnologist specializing in bioremediation and waste management. Author of over 60 JCR-listed publications, 12 patents, and numerous commercial implementations. Principal investigator of multiple projects funded by NCBR (PBS, LIDER, GEKON), NCN (OPUS), FNP (TEAM TECH, TEAM NET), and PARP (INNOVATION VOUCHER).

Recipient of numerous awards, including the 2019 Ministry of Science Award for implementation achievements, scholarships from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, and the FNP START program. He has completed research internships in China, Bulgaria, and Germany. Actively involved in research commercialization – co-founder of BHUMI and RDLS companies.

Significant Achievement

Development of microbiological methods for remediation of environments contaminated with arsenic, based on the use of arsenic-metabolizing bacteria. The research led to the identification and characterization of strains capable of arsenic transformation, enabling precise study of transformation mechanisms and the creation of innovative bioremediation technologies. The results were patented in Poland, the US, and EU, and the technology was tested in real-world conditions.