Synthetic Biology Research Targets Sustainable Fuels, Chemicals, and Materials
SINGAPORE – The National University of Singapore (NUS) is spearheading a groundbreaking $120 million national research effort to harness the potential of carbon-absorbing microbes to revolutionize green manufacturing. This cutting-edge initiative, rooted in synthetic biology, aims to engineer fast-growing microbes, such as algae, to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable products like sustainable fuels, chemicals, and biomaterials.
Professor Liu Bin, NUS Deputy President (Research and Technology), highlighted the vision to reverse traditional refining processes by enabling these microbes to consume CO2 as fuel, turning it into usable materials. This innovation supports Singapore’s ambitions to establish Jurong Island as a hub for sustainable chemical production and bolster the nation’s decarbonization goals.
Collaborative Research and Global Partnerships
The project involves collaboration between NUS, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), A*Star, and polytechnics like Temasek Polytechnic, as well as international partners such as Shanghai Jiao Tong University and the French National Centre for Scientific Research. These partnerships aim to enhance the efficiency of microbial photosynthesis and engineer plant-based molecules for use in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
By 2026, flights departing from Singapore will be required to use SAF as part of their fuel mix, creating demand for greener aviation alternatives.
Innovations in Synthetic Biology
The initiative leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to design “cell factories” that optimize microbial productivity. These microbes, traditionally fed with sugars, are being developed to thrive on CO2, a free and abundant resource.
One notable collaboration with Shanghai Jiao Tong University focuses on cyanobacteria, a blue-green algae capable of photosynthesis. The research team is working to convert CO2 into medical biomaterials and alternative biofuels.
Another project with French researchers aims to engineer energy-dense plant molecules to meet the rising global demand for SAF.
Broader Applications and Industry Partnerships
Synthetic biology is already transforming industries beyond biofuels. Since 1978, engineered bacteria have been used to produce synthetic insulin for diabetics. Today, these advancements extend to cancer immunotherapy and recovering precious metals like gold from e-waste.
The NUS Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI) has played a key role in these advancements since its founding in 2014. The center has secured over $150 million in funding for projects ranging from pharmaceuticals to sustainable manufacturing.
Through the Singapore Consortium for Synthetic Biology, NUS partners with industry leaders to foster a globally connected bio-economy. For instance, agri-business giant Wilmar collaborates with NUS to produce rare oleochemicals, used in plastics, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, through bio-manufacturing.
A Future Powered by Microbial Innovations
With an estimated synthetic biology market valuation of US$55.37 billion by 2030, this initiative positions Singapore as a global leader in sustainable innovation. By integrating AI, research, and industry partnerships, NUS is paving the way for a carbon-neutral manufacturing future.
