Besides their natural biological and structural functions, biopolymers can be engineered into new materials with novel functionalities for use in foods, pharmaceuticals and even as drugs and medical devices.

We aim to understand and control the molecular architecture of biopolymers to harness the full potential of their functional properties and to develop targeted applications.

More information about Biopolymer Engineering

Research Labs

Research in the Biopolymers and Biomaterials research division is categorized based on the activities conducted in individual labs. For details please follow the links:

CAZyme Structure and Function

PI: Gaston Courtade

We study the structures and mechanisms of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes), including lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases, cutinases, glycosyltransferases, and carbohydrate-binding modules. In particular, we are interested in protein dynamics and interactions between proteins and biopolymers.

Biopolymer NMR

PI: Finn L. Aachmann

Our main research interest is in NMR spectroscopy, especially NMR on biological macromolecules. We are currently working with enzymes active on polysaccharides like cellulose, chitin and alginate. Furthermore, we are also applying enzymes for extracting and tailoring polysaccharides from seaweed to produce new biomaterials.

Polysaccharide architecture and self-assembly

PI: Bjørn E. Christensen

We study a range of oligo- and polysaccharides in different contexts. These include alginates, chitosans, chitin, β-1,3-glucans, hyaluronan, dextran and many others. Recent research focus mostly on block polysaccharides prepared by terminal attachment of two different oligosaccharides. This architecture provides new properties while retaining others that are normally lost in conventional lateral derivatives.

Biopolymer rheology and materials

PI: Catherine Taylor Nordgård

We study biopolymer based matrices and their functional behaviour. Our research themes encompass research into the complex rheology of biological soft matter, creating mechanofunctionality in biopolymer based materials, and understanding the way these systems interact with external and environmental components. Materials we work with include  mucus / mucin systems, marine and terrestrial polymers and composite materials, biomaterials, pharma- and neutraceultical products and food systems.  Our research spans basic and applied research with an intergrated approach to innovation and intersectorial collaboration. 

Polysaccharide-based biomaterials

PI: Berit Løkensgard Strand

We focus on basic understanding of biopolymers, in particular alginates, and on the functional properties depending on composition and sequence. We have a particular interest in the interface of biomaterials and biological systems and to tailor biopolymer materials for biomedical applications.