From iron to biohydrogen: how bacteria are inspiring the biotechnologies of tomorrow

Résumé :

Microorganisms play a crucial role in biotechnologies, enabling the transformation of matter into high-value gases and biomass. At a time when the climate emergency demands a rethinking of our energy models, my work is part of a responsible research approach, aiming to reconcile scientific excellence, environmental sustainability, and economic viability.​
Over the past twelve years, I have dedicated my career to understanding the molecular mechanisms of the Fur and SUF systems (Fe-S cluster biogenesis, bacterial virulence) and to studying nickel insertion into CO dehydrogenase, using integrated structural approaches (SAXS, MALLS, crystallography). Since 2021, I have refocused my research on energy biotechnologies. After a brief overview of my scientific journey, I will detail my projects on developing solutions for BioH₂ production and CO₂ valorization, particularly through the « Bioraffinery » project (combining photofermentation and methanogenesis), inspired by my participation in the 2022 EIC Horizon Prize. I have optimized photobioreactors (PBRs), improving their light efficiency and achieving up to 5 mol H₂/mol of substrate from PLA waste.​
Today, I am working on optimizing microbial strains and culture conditions, as well as integrating circular processes for the joint production of BioH₂/BioCH₄. In collaboration with Génoscope, CEA Tech, and industrial partners, I have developed advanced biorafineries to convert by-products into biofuels.​
My work, at the interface of biophysics, enzymology, and engineering, is part of a decarbonized bioeconomy approach.​

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Contact : alain.farchi@cea.fr