Overview of Our Cultivation Facilities

Our cultivation facilities are at the forefront of microbiome research, providing the essential infrastructure for groundbreaking studies into microbial interactions, dynamics, and applications. These facilities support our multidisciplinary approach to understanding and manipulating microbiomes.

High-Throughput Droplet Microfluidics:

Our high-throughput droplet microfluidics platform allows for the rapid screening and cultivation of microbial communities. This technology enables the simultaneous testing of millions of microbial variants, facilitating the discovery of key microbial interactions and the identification of beneficial microbial consortia.

Automated Robotic Platforms:

The JenXplor robotics platform is a state-of-the-art liquid handling system designed for bioactivity testing and molecular biology applications. This fully automated system enhances the efficiency and accuracy of our research, supporting extensive screening campaigns and deep characterization of microbial variants.

Fermentation Technologies:

Our advanced fermentation systems enable the cultivation of stable synthetic communities and the monitoring of microbial growth and metabolic activity over extended periods. These technologies are crucial for studying complex microbial interactions and for developing robust microbial applications.

Organ-on-Chip Models:

Our human organ-on-chip models provide a sophisticated platform for studying microbial interactions at the interface between tissues and microbial communities. These models allow us to introduce a higher level of complexity into our experiments without the need for animal testing, advancing our understanding of microbiome-host interactions.

Gnotobiotic Mouse Facility:

For certain complex questions, particularly those related to microbiome-host interactions, our gnotobiotic mouse facility offers an unparalleled environment for controlled experiments. These germ-free mice are essential for studying the intricate relationships between microbiomes and their hosts in a fully controlled setting.

Training and Technology Development:

We are committed to the continuous development of user-centered technologies and comprehensive training programs. Our facilities support face-to-face interactions and hands-on training sessions, ensuring that researchers are well-equipped to utilize our advanced cultivation platforms. This approach maximizes the potential for innovative discoveries and the development of practical applications.