Digital Production
Present efforts of LPRE aim at the development of powerful, modular, and predictive design and software tools for dynamic simulation of chemical and biochemical processes. In particular, current research efforts are focused on

1. mechanistic modeling, simulation and optimization of polymerization, biochemical and biological systems;

2. data-based modeling and process monitoring, development of molecular structure – end-use property relationships by machine-learning approaches.

Functional Materials

1. Synthesis of hydrogels for biomedical applications;

2. Synthesis and application of organic-inorganic hybrid materials in coatings;

3. Synthesis of functional materials by molecular imprinting for analytical separations and sensor applications;

4. Membrane assisted capacitive deionization by carbon based materials and highly conductive polymers for water desalination;

5. Sustainable production of nanocellulose for the development of high performance nanoscale materials.

Microbial Production

1. Bioconversion of biomass and wastes/residues to biopolymers, biofuels and high-added value biochemicals via microbial bioprocesses; 

2. Enzymatic biocatalysis and cell factories (bacterial, yeast and microalgal) for biochemicals production;

3. Biomaterials production through 2nd (from lignocellulosic biomass) and 3rd (via microalgal cultures) generation of biorefineries.

Biomedical Engineering

1. Synthesis of biodegradable/biocompatible polymer and lipid based nanoparticles, nanovesicles, nanoemulsions for mucosal delivery of therapeutic biomolecules and antigens;

2. Development of multifunctional biomimetic hydrogels;

3. Development of nanocarrier based novel vaccine formulations;

4. The digital physiological human (i.e., simulation of nasal and pulmonary particle deposition, nasal/pulmonary drug delivery systems).