How to turn algae into medication and functional food
In July 2024, 21 early career researchers and young entrepreneurs travelled to Faro, Portugal, to attend our interdisciplinary summer school on bio-prospecting algae which took place at the Centre of Marine Sciences (CCMAR), at the University of Algarve. During the two-weeks course, experts in the field gave lectures and organised practical workshops. Topics ranged from cultivating algae to developing algae-based products, and from the molecular and microbial implications of inflammation to the health-effects of algae compounds.
From algae collections to product development
During the first week, the focus was on disseminating the latest knowledge about algae collection, compound extraction, bioactivity testing, compound isolation and pre-clinical tests. These sessions provided a comprehensive understanding of the steps involved in harnessing algae’s potential for health applications.
In the second week, the lectures shifted towards the development and regulation of algae-based food products and pharmaceuticals. Experts gave insights into the challenges and strategies in bringing these innovative products to market.
From the lecture hall to the lab and industry
Workshops and field trips were integral to the summer school to provide participants insight into the practical application of the courses’ theoretical knowledge.
Workshops provided hands-on experience in microalgae cultivation, algae biomass extraction, and compound separation using chromatographic techniques.
Participants visited GreenCoLAB, a non-profit service provider for algae cultivation and processing, and the animal facilities at the University of Algarve. During a visit to Necton’s facilities, they saw industrial-scale algae production.
Beyond the traditional course programme
A boat tour to the stunning caves along the Algarve coast, an algae cooking class, an algae printing and watercolour painting workshop combined education with leisure and allowed plenty of time for networking during the weekend.
The projects of tomorrow
At the end of the summer school, students worked on project proposals for developing algae-based products using their newly acquired knowledge and skills. They presented their proposals to the lecturers, concluding the summer school on the final day.
The summer school was organised by the CCMAR and the MIGAL Galilee Research Institute who developed lectures and workshops together with:
Algaia, the Biological Research Centre Szeged, Centre Algatech, ENCO, GreenCoLab, Necton, NORD University, San Raffaele Hospital, Sea4Us, Teagasc, the University of Naples, and VITO.
Take a look at the detailed summer school programme here.