The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and Innovate UK have issued a funding call for businesses looking to exploit biofilms—groups of microorganisms that attach to both organic and inorganic surfaces.
Up to £100,000 is on offer for projects from a total pot of £2.5 million. According to a statement from Innovate UK, the call is the first part of a national programme on biofilms.
Although biofilms often have corrosive properties, as when they form on ships’ hulls or on teeth, they can also be used to treat sewage and protect against infection. The Innovate UK statement reports that commercial opportunities relating to biofilms could be worth as much as £2 billion globally by 2020.
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