Research Infrastructure for an Intelligent Biorefinery Based on Precision Fermentation
Planned project: PrecFer4innoP (Precision fermentation for innovative products)
Transformation Through Research: A New Era for the Bioeconomy
Societal expectations for sustainable and resilient production of food and biomaterials are high. Climate change, resource scarcity, and the goal of a fully circular economy demand new approaches in research. With the infrastructure project PrecFer4innoP, ATB - together with Osnabrück University and other partner institutions - responds to these challenges by establishing a platform for systemic and technological innovations within the bioeconomy. As part of the national prioritization process for large-scale research infrastructures (FIS) of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the consortium submitted a brief concept entitled PrecFer4innoP (Precision Fermentation for Innovative Products) in October 2024, which is now undergoing review.
PrecFer4innoP – The Concept
At the core of the initiative is the development of a modular, intelligent biorefinery based on precision fermentation. The aim is to efficiently convert biogenic resources – including residual biomass – into high-value products such as:
- Platform chemicals
- Proteins from single-cell organisms (e.g., Solein®)
- Mycelium-like biomass for direct use in food production
- Single-cell oil and other bio-based materials
This infrastructure integrates biological, technological, and digital innovations to support the development and demonstration of scalable processes across the entire value chain.
Interdisciplinary Strength in the Consortium
PrecFer4innoP is coordinated by ATB and developed in close collaboration with Osnabrück University as a further responsible institution, particularly involving the Departments of Biology and Mathematics / Artificial Intelligence.
- ATB – Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy brings in its strong track record in system-oriented agricultural engineering, precision fermentation, and process integration within the bioeconomy. The institute contributes essential infrastructure, interdisciplinary research capacity, and its longstanding experience in technology transfer and stakeholder engagement.
- Osnabrück University, with its Departments of Biology and Mathematics / Artificial Intelligence, complements the initiative through cutting-edge research in microbial systems biology, modeling, and AI-based process control. Their expertise enables the development of adaptive and intelligent solutions for precision fermentation and the optimization of biotechnological processes.
Together, these institutions lay the foundation for a powerful innovation platform that bridges basic research, applied technology, and real-world implementation within a circular bioeconomy framework.
Additional partner institutions complement the consortium with their specific expertise. The goal is to pool interdisciplinary knowledge for a holistic view of technologies, processes, and system integration. These partners include:
- DFKI – German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence
Expertise in data-driven methods, AI-supported process optimization, and intelligent systems. - DIL – German Institute of Food Technologies
Specialized in the development of innovative food technologies and sustainable processing concepts. - Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin)
Scientific excellence in process engineering, systems analysis, and sustainability research. - Lobetaler BIO
Practical experience in organic farming and food production with a strong social mission. - Agrotech Valley Forum e.V.
A strong regional network focused on agricultural technologies and innovation
Digital Intelligence for Sustainable Processes
A key innovation area within PrecFer4innoP is the integration of digital technologies:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) for model-based process optimization
- Digital Twins for real-time monitoring and control
- Sensor-based systems and automation for adaptive production environments
These tools will significantly improve energy and resource efficiency, reduce waste, and support the integration of renewable energy in agricultural systems.
Infrastructure with Impact – Regionally Anchored, Globally Relevant
The research cluster leverages the strong research landscape in Brandenburg and Lower Saxony, close ties to agricultural practice, and access to highly qualified personnel. PrecFer4innoP will not only advance scientific excellence but also support practical implementation through knowledge transfer – contributing to a sustainable, circular, and resilient bioeconomy.
Advancing Technological Sovereignty in Germany
PrecFer4innoP aligns with Germany’s strategic goal of becoming a global leader in bioeconomy and circular economy. By linking research infrastructure with innovation ecosystems and digital transformation, the project supports national technological sovereignty. Its modular, energy-autonomous design allows flexible adaptation to various feedstocks and process conditions – a critical step towards resilient production systems.
