Industrial Microorganisms
Microorganisms | Public ScienceWe’re using our understanding of ecology and evolution to identify wild microorganisms in our environment that have unique industrial applications. These microorganisms include yeasts from bumblebees that make better sour beers, yeasts from wasps that make superior breads, and bacteria that create pollution-reducing enzymes. We work with collaborators across the university and industry partners (big and small) to bring these microorganisms to market. In learning about how they can be useful to industrial applications, we learn more about their ecology and the secret relationships that exist among the microscopic life nearest us. Our secondary goal is to use these beers to educate the public on the diversity of microbial life and the application of such discoveries.
Our Industrial Partnerships
- Baking Yeasts
- Brewing Yeasts
- Salt
- Caviar
- Pants
People
Anne Madden, Post-doc
In the Press
The Beers and the Bees: Pollinators Provide a Different Kind of Brewer’s Yeast
Scientific American July 26, 2017 – Features the research of Anne Madden.
Your next happy hour buzz, brought to you by bees
PBS Newshour June 16, 2017 – Features the research of Anne Madden.
Walk on the Wild Side With Beer Made From Wasp Yeast
National Geographic – The Plate September 29, 2015 – Features the research of Anne Madden.
From the Lab Bench to the Beer Glass
NC State News September 9, 2015 – Features the research of Anne Madden.
The next big thing for beer could be bugs, NC State scientists say
The News & Observer July 29, 2015 – Features the research of Anne Madden.
True story: N.C. State scientists brew beer from wasps’ yeast
Indy Week July 21, 2015 – Features the research of Anne Madden.
