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Creation of a center of excellence in Portugal focused on the areas of Biotechnology and Circular Economy, adding bioengineering, microbiology and bioanalytical skills. Development of new molecules of high commercial interest, in particular for the industries pharmaceutical, cosmetic, industrial and food industries.

Abstract

Through this project, Amyris intends to contribute to the optimization of the efficiency of its biomolecule production process and to investigate new applications for the by-products / residues resulting from this process, thus enhancing the development of new molecules of high commercial interest, in particular for the industries pharmaceutical, cosmetic, industrial and food industries.

As part of an application to AICEP, in a partnership between the Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP), Amyris Portugal and the Government of Portugal (AICEP), the Alchemy project is an investment in research, development and innovation of a very relevant investment of around 25 million with an incentive of 16.5 million, but involving a total expenditure of 42.3 million euros, of which 26.3 million euros is the responsibility of AMYRIS.

The project has a time span of 5 years, and results in the direct creation, in AMYRIS and UCP, of about 70 new jobs for researchers. There is also a very significant impact on indirect creation and job retention.

Focus on conducting valorization activities focused on three main areas, the project will includes the following main research lines: 1. Valorization of sugarcane bagasse & straw; 2. Valorization of fermentation vinasse & bottom; 3. Valorization of spent yeast; 4. Development of a new generation platform; 5. Optimization of fermentation processes & new applications for Amyris biomolecules.

The structuring impacts of the Alchemy Project for Portugal are indisputable, contributing very significantly to the national economy.

Keywords

Biotechnology, Circular Economics, Research Center

Promoters/Partners

Escola Superior de Biotecnologia – Universidade Católica Portuguesa; Amyris Bio Products Portugal, Unipessoal, Lda; AICEP