BioProcess Engineering and Downstream Processing

Research Focus: Integrated Biorefinery Concepts & Multi-Product Strategies: We develop scalable pretreatment and fractionation strategies to unlock the potential of lignocellulosic and green biomass. By combining mechanical, thermal, enzymatic, and analytical methods, we enable the efficient conversion of complex plant matter into fermentable sugars, proteins, and fibers for downstream bioprocessing.

Exemplary Project: PLAntCycle – Integrated Microbial Conversion of Plant Biomass into PLA Bioplastic (BMBF): PLAntCycle develops scalable processes for converting lignocellulosic biomass into fermentable sugars and subsequently into lactic acid for PLA production. The project integrates mechanical, thermal, enzymatic, and microbial pretreatment steps and focuses on efficient utilization of both glucose and xylose. This enables sustainable PLA production from diverse plant-based feedstocks.

Exemplary Project: KaNu Gras – Sequential Biorefinery of Perennial Ryegrass (BMEL): In this public-private research initiative, we collaborate with seed breeders and bioprocess developers to establish a cascade use concept for German ryegrass cultivars. The process enables the recovery of proteins for feed, lactic acid for bioplastics, and fibers for bio-composites. Advanced analytical tools (e.g. ATR-MIR, DSC) support real-time process monitoring and fractionation control.

Research Focus: Microbial Conversion & Electrobiotechnology: We design and optimize microbial processes for the sustainable production of chemicals, fuels, and materials. By applying metabolic engineering, adaptive cultivation strategies, and integrated electrobiotechnological tools, we expand substrate spectra, increase yields, and enable novel bioconversions such as gas and CO₂ fermentation.

Exemplary Project: eSuccinat – Microbial Electrosynthesis of Succinic Acid (BMEL): The project aims to enhance microbial production of succinic acid by integrating electrical energy into the fermentation process. CO₂ serves as a carbon source, while electrical inputs drive redox balance and product formation. This Power-to-X approach enables the synthesis of a valuable platform chemical from renewable resources and contributes to climate-neutral bioprocessing.

Research Focus: Bioreactor Design & Green Hydrogen Production: We develop robust bioreactor systems for microbial production processes, with a special focus on gas fermentation and thermophilic systems. Our expertise includes scale-up, process control, and integration of renewable energy carriers into microbial metabolism to support energy-biotechnology interfaces.

Exemplary Project: BioH₂ – Microbial Hydrogen Production from Organic Residues (BMBF): The project explores the use of thermophilic microorganisms and enzymes to convert agricultural and municipal residues into hydrogen. Designed for integration into existing biogas infrastructure, the process also aims to store surplus electricity in the form of biohydrogen via microbial pathways.

Research Focus: Circular Bioeconomy & Residue Valorization: We identify and evaluate underutilized residue streams from regional industries and agriculture. Our work combines biochemical characterization, biotechnological test conversions, and stakeholder engagement to develop circular strategies for material recovery and product innovation.

Exemplary Project: Residue Valorization in the Euskirchen Region (Regional Initiative with AGIT, FH Aachen & Industry Partners): In collaboration with companies from the Euskirchen district, we analyze production residues for their potential in biotechnological applications. The project develops utilization concepts for packaging materials and other biobased products. Workshops and applied lab studies ensure knowledge transfer and stimulate follow-up projects across sectors.

Bioprocess Engineering

Core modules for understanding unit operations and industrial biotechnological processes.

This category includes Bioverfahrenstechnik 1 and Bioverfahrenstechnik 2 in the Bachelor's program. Students learn how to design and scale-up bioreactors based on mass and energy balances, with emphasis on mixing, aeration, and heat transfer. The curriculum also covers chemical and biotechnological separation processes such as extraction, distillation, drying, and solid-liquid separation. Digital tools for process simulation are integrated through modeling sessions and guided software exercises.

Downstream Processing & Separation Technologies

Product recovery in biotechnology – from basic separation to advanced purification.

This category covers both Downstream Processing (B.Sc.) and Advanced Downstream Processing (M.Sc.). Topics include cell disruption, filtration, precipitation, liquid-liquid extraction, and preparative chromatography. Advanced modules address membrane systems, continuous purification, and electromigration techniques. Process modeling and cost assessment are emphasized through hands-on laboratory demonstrations and simulation-based coursework.

Project-Based Practicals & Applied Fermentation

Hands-on training in bioprocess development, aligned with real research challenges.

This area combines Praktikum Bioverfahrenstechnik (B.Sc.), Mikrobielle Fermentation (M.Sc.), and the advanced module Bioreaktionstechnik für Fortgeschrittene (M.Sc.). Students recreate a full biorefinery process: raw material analysis, enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation, and downstream processing. Industrially relevant topics such as bio-based surfactants, lignocellulose conversion, and microbial hydrogen production are integrated. Emphasis is placed on experiment planning, data analysis, and digital process modeling.

Brewing Technology & Food Biotechnology

From tradition to innovation – fermentation and food biotechnology in practice.

This elective module (Lebensmittelbiotechnologie und Brauwesen, offered for both B.Sc. and M.Sc.) introduces brewing and food biotechnology as interdisciplinary bioprocesses. Bachelor students carry out a full brewing process on a 100 L pilot plant. Master students participate in lectures on microbial food production, biotechnological processing techniques, and regulatory frameworks. In addition, project work allows Master students to design and present innovations in food biotechnology or brewing system optimization.