From the Symposium:
Are extremophiles the key to advances in bioenergy?
Extremophiles are microorganisms that are capable of growth under extreme conditions, such as very high temperature, high salt, or low pH. Studies of the microbiology, physiology and biochemistry of extremophiles have many direct applications to bioenergy because of their high rates of catalysis, increased stability, and tolerance to extreme conditions commonly utilized during biomass processing. Thus, these relatively poorly described organisms offer a unique opportunity for development of new technologies for biofuel production, degradation of biomass, and development of new biotechnology.
We welcome you to the two-day Extremophiles Symposium, Sept. 19-20, 2011 at the University of Georgia, featuring presentations by leaders on the application of extremophiles to bioenergy and biofuels, biodegradation, and biotechnology. The Symposium is extremely timely in respect to the growing recognition that the world cannot sustain its current dependence on fossil fuels as the key source of energy as well as the substantial efforts of the University of Georgia in these areas of research. The meeting includes 30 invited speakers, including 20 international speakers from Europe, Asia, South America and Africa, as well as 10 speakers from the US. Poster sessions will showcase scientific research by UGA graduate students and faculty.