Building a modular genetic toolbox for a new circular economy chassis

Project partners: University of Edinburgh & MiAlgae

Project focus area: Waste recycling

MiAlgae uses cutting-edge biotechnology to recycle waste products from the Scottish whisky industry to grow microalgae as a cost-effective alternative to fish-derived Omega 3s. MiAlgae’s products address the increasing demands from aquaculture and pet food markets, which are seeking sustainable and ethical sources of marine Omega 3s. This positive impact was recognised by the 2024 Earthshot prize, with MiAlgae being one of three finalists in the Revive Our Oceans category.

The award will allow MiAlgae to partner with the Edinburgh Genome Foundry (EGF), based at the University of Edinburgh, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to advanced biological research and development. By integrating computational tools with automated laboratory systems, EGF supports a wide range of applications in biotechnology and sustainability. It plays a vital role in driving innovation across the UK’s bioeconomy, collaborating with both academic and industrial partners.

This collaborative project will support the development of a specialised toolkit to enhance MiAlgae’s research and development capabilities, enabling the creation of next-generation products that further reduce reliance on marine resources and support a more sustainable future.

For more information

For more information on this project, contact us, or view all Engineering Biology SPARK Award winners.

This project funding is part of the Engineering Biology Innovation Network, led by Innovate UK Business Connect in collaboration with Innovate UK and UKRI’s Technology Mission Fund. The network’s goal is to progress innovations, create a commercially focused community and foster new consortia to advance innovations towards commercial applications.