Center for Biofilm Engineering

Center for Biofilm Engineering

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Established	1990
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The Center for Biofilm Engineering (CBE) is a renowned interdisciplinary research center located at Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana. Established in 1990, the CBE is dedicated to the study of biofilms, which are complex communities of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces and are embedded in a self-produced extracellular matrix.

History

The CBE was founded with funding from the National Science Foundation as one of the original Engineering Research Centers. Its mission is to advance the understanding of biofilm processes and to develop technologies for biofilm control and utilization. Over the years, the CBE has become a leader in biofilm research, attracting scientists and engineers from around the world.

Research Areas

The CBE focuses on several key areas of biofilm research:

• Biofilm Structure and Function: Understanding the physical and chemical properties of biofilms, including their formation, growth, and detachment.
• Biofilm Control and Mitigation: Developing strategies to prevent and remove biofilms in industrial, medical, and environmental settings.
• Biofilm Applications: Exploring beneficial uses of biofilms, such as in wastewater treatment and bioremediation.
• Microbial Ecology: Studying the interactions between different microbial species within biofilms and their environments.

Facilities

The CBE is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities, including advanced microscopy and imaging technologies, bioreactors, and analytical instruments. These resources enable researchers to conduct cutting-edge experiments and analyses on biofilm systems.

Education and Outreach

The CBE is committed to education and outreach, offering training programs for students, professionals, and the public. It provides opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in biofilm research and collaborates with industry partners to address real-world biofilm challenges.

Collaborations

The CBE collaborates with a wide range of academic, governmental, and industrial partners. These collaborations enhance the center's research capabilities and facilitate the translation of scientific discoveries into practical applications.

Impact

The research conducted at the CBE has significant implications for various industries, including healthcare, water treatment, and food processing. By advancing the understanding of biofilms, the CBE contributes to the development of new technologies and strategies for managing biofilm-related issues.

Also see

• Biofilm
• Microbial Ecology
• Montana State University
• National Science Foundation