Research Organisation
SCELSE’s research is organised into four interdisciplinary clusters focused on biofilms, microbiomes, and genomics. The work of these clusters is supported by the Integrative Analysis Unit (IAU), which provides expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and training to strengthen research across SCELSE’s integrated scientific platforms.
Environmental Engineering Cluster
Research in the Environmental Engineering cluster explores microbiomes at the water-food-environment nexus, focusing on pollutant degradation, nutrient removal, and valorisation of wastewater, contributing to water treatment, resource recovery, and circular bioeconomy advancements.
Specialising In
- Pollutant degradation
- Wastewater treatment and surveillance
- Circular economy
- Resource recovery
Biofilm Biology Cluster
SCELSE’s Biofilm Biology cluster adopts a bottom-up approach using model systems to address defined biofilm-community and environment interactions in micro-scales, and to understand the role of extracellular matrix components in the biofilm mode of life.
Specialising In
- Biofilm formation and dispersal
- Biofilm matrix
- Host-microbe interactions
- Microbial signalling
Meta-‘omics & Microbiomes Cluster
The Meta-‘omics & Microbiomes cluster applies a comprehensive top-down approach to identify all members of complex biofilm communities, what they do, and how the responses of the entire biofilm community reflect the conditions of their environment and the performance of the system.
Specialising In
- Air microbiomes
- Microbial community meta-’omics
- Ultra-low biomass sequencing
- Bioaerosols and respiratory health
Biofilms & Health Cluster
Biofilms & Health uses an in-depth knowledge of microbial biofilm and holobiont biology to understand pathogen resistance mechanisms, biofilm mediated chronic infections and inflammation, to establish biofilm specific targets for microbial control technologies and medical treatments.
Specialising In
- Pathogenic traits & virulence factors
- Host-microbe interactions
- Antimicrobial strategies
- Human microbiome research
Integrative Analysis Unit
The Integrative Analysis Unit (IAU) analyses complex metagenome and metatranscriptome data generated across SCELSE’s integrated research themes, and advises on experimental design, data utilisation and research output. They provide training through workshops, enhancing data utilization and research output with advanced analysis tools.
Specialising In
- Downstream analysis of metagenome and metatranscriptome data
- Collaboration with SCELSE researchers on data interpretation
- Training workshops on experimental design and analysis tools
- Development of computational methods and genome-independent analysis