Close-up of 96-well plate stained green.

Researching the potential of species evolution in response to a changing global environment.

Environmental Biotechnology and Genomics

The Environmental Biotechnology and Genomics Program is contributing to the development of new environmental and bioindustries biotechnologies, and helping to build an understanding of the impact insects have on our environment and agriculture.

24 August 2010 | Updated 14 October 2011

Overview
Current activities

Overview

Our biotechnology research is focusing on the development of new environmental and industrial biotechnologies, biomaterials and sensory biology.

Our genomics research focuses on developing new technologies to underpin an understanding of the potential of species evolving in response to a global environment that is altering as a consequence of climate change, impacts of invasive species, land use change and development, and habitat destruction.

A particular focus is in the genetics of resistance to transgenic crops and the interactions of insects, microbes and plants at the genome and genetic level.

We are involved in research on:

manipulating enzyme and structural protein function and structure to create new biochemical pathways and biomaterials
understanding the biomolecular basis of odour and taste discrimination, leading to a biomimetic and bioinspired approach to rapid volatile sensing for food, health and security applications
genomics – understanding the genetic basis for insect/plant, vector/pathogen and pathogen/host interactions
genetics – understanding the mechanistic and environmental factors contributing to the rate of evolution of insecticide/toxin resistance.

Current activities

The Environmental Biotechnology and Genomics Program is involved in a range of research activities and projects. Some examples are:

Scanning electron micrograph of the head of Drosophila melanogaster showing the compound eyes and olfactory organs

Sniffing a better future with Cybernose

Our aim is to co-opt the olfactory receptors of insects and worms to engineer a robust cybernose that can reproducibly fingerprint olfactory patterns.

A female scientist checking micro-titre plate for protein concentrates as part of the bioremediation project - screening for protein concentrates.

Researching enzymes to improve our world

Research into the use of natural and synthetic enzymes may assist manufacturing industries, agricultural and environmental biotechnologies and biosecurity.

Orica Watercare employees lock the static mixer elements in place during bioremediation field trials.

Enzyme product removes pesticides from water

CSIRO has come up with an environmental first - an enzyme-based product that rapidly breaks down specific pesticide and herbicide contaminants.
CSIRO has come up with an environmental first - a product that rapidly breaks down pesticide contaminants in wastewater.

Researching silk genes

Scientists are researching the structure and function of insect derived silks to help determine their effectiveness in developing new biomaterials.

Ecogenomics

CSIRO scientists are applying advanced genomics to help interpret the relationship between biodiversity and environmental health.

Second generation biofuels

CSIRO is assessing current technology for developing second generation biofuels obtained from lignocellulose with a particular focus on conversion processes.

Several Russian wheat aphids feeding on wheat.

Preparing Australia for a Russian wheat aphid invasion

CSIRO scientists are studying how Russian wheat aphid, Diuraphis noxia successfully overcomes resistance in wheat in order to protect Australian farmers from this devastating invasive pest.

Managing moth resistance to cottons

Genetics research by CSIRO scientists is helping to prolong the life of transgenic cottons containing insect toxins.
Genetics research by CSIRO scientists is helping to prolong the life of transgenic cottons containing insect toxins.