The Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology, directed by Dr. Carlos Vera and Dr. Felipe Arenas, is dedicated to the identification and characterization of metal- and metalloid-resistant bacteria, as well as the synthesis of non-toxic insoluble metals through biotransformation processes. In addition, it focuses on the identification, cloning, expression and purification of extremophilic enzymes for their application in the biotechnological industry.

The laboratory is also specialized in biocatalysis and biotransformations, centering on the use of glycosidases for revaluing residues. Its research includes the study, development and optimization of the synthesis of high added-value compounds from carbohydrates, using biocatalyzer and reaction engineering strategies. Some of the laboratory’s active research lines are galacto-oligosaccharide and alkyl-galactoside synthesis, both with prebiotic applications and applications in the production of non-toxic and biodegradable tensoactives.