The Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology, newly established in March 2025 within the Department of Biotechnology, School of Applied Biology and Biotechnology at the Agricultural University of Athens, is primarily dedicated to conducting high-level interdisciplinary research. This research focuses on cognitive subjects encompassing Ecosystem Biodiversity, Environmental Biotechnology, and Environmental Biochemistry. Key areas of focus include:

• Utilization of Omics technologies: This involves the analysis of Environmental Big Data derived from methodologies such as Genomics, Transcriptomics and Metabolomics, which can be used for Environmental protection, bioremediation of biological resources and ecosystem biodiversity in both natural terrestrial and aquatic environments.
• Studying interactions between organisms in all habitats: The lab investigates the organization and interaction among various organisms (plants, animals, viruses, bacteria, fungi, algae), as well as their interplay with their abiotic environment at the level of metabolic processes.
• Developing biotechnological approaches: This aims to study and enhance the adaptability of organisms, thereby developing novel biotechnological strategies and addressing ecological phenomena, such as the impact of climate change in biosphere.
• Innovating environmentally friendly processes: The lab works on the development and utilization of new, renewable biotechnological processes and applications within these fields.

Expanding Reach and Impact

The “Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology” is committed to high-level interdisciplinary research in its specialized fields. It fosters the development of valuable know-how through collaboration among research teams with shared or complementary interests, actively contributing to the research and educational needs of its academic unit.

Innovative methods within the laboratory’s cognitive subjects are applied and disseminated through strategic collaborations. These partnerships extend to professors, other laboratories, research centers, academic institutions, chambers, public and local government bodies, research and technology organizations, and professional associations across Greece and internationally, encompassing the broader public, private, professional, and productive sectors.

The lab also undertakes the execution of research and development projects and programs. The financial management for these initiatives is handled by the Special Account for Research Funds (E.L.K.E.) of the Agricultural University of Athens, with the specific aim of exploring and identifying techniques and methods to advance scientific understanding in the laboratory’s areas of expertise.

Furthermore, the laboratory offers Lifelong Learning services, available both in-person and remotely, either independently or in conjunction with other laboratories or organizations, within its cognitive domains. Research activities are actively connected with the economic, societal, and developmental sectors through cooperation agreements with domestic or foreign companies and industries.

A significant aspect of the lab’s work involves strengthening ties with society. This is achieved by transferring research findings and specialized know-how, and by addressing societal needs whenever assistance is requested on matters within the laboratory’s purview. The lab actively promotes the UN Sustainable Development Goals and supports the creation of products and services in areas relevant to its cognitive subjects.

To further its research endeavors, the laboratory secures resources and funding. It also provides services for certifying knowledge and skills in its thematic areas and offers specialized scientific and consulting work to external natural or legal persons, particularly through expert opinions and detailed studies.