The field of plant biotechnology encompasses teaching and research focused on integrating fundamental knowledge from various scientific disciplines to develop, improve, and apply techniques involving plants and microorganisms for beneficial purposes. Key areas of focus include :
Biofuel production: Research and development in biofuel production, including studies on biodiesel production using enzymes as biocatalysts and the production of cellulosic ethanol. This involves enhancing enzyme and microorganism performance through molecular genetics techniques for more efficient biofuel production, as well as creating co-products that add value.
Plant biomass utilization: Utilizing lignin and cellulose from agricultural waste materials to produce valuable industrial compounds such as ethanol, biopolymers, prebiotics, and various antibiotics. This process relies on the activity of microorganisms, including fungi and bacteria, in conjunction with plants.
Secondary metabolite production from plants: Using plant tissue culture techniques to produce secondary metabolites with medicinal properties from medicinal plants. This research includes the investigation of bioactive compounds derived from herbal plants.
Application of ectomycorrhizal fungi for reforestation: Selecting ectomycorrhizal fungi to produce various inoculant forms that stimulate the growth and survival of seedlings in reforestation efforts.
Additionally, the department has established research units, including the Biofuel Production Research Unit and the Plant Biomass Utilization Research Unit, to support research initiatives. The department also collaborates with private sector partners and various international educational institutions to advance research and innovation in plant and fungal biotechnology.
Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University