MIAB Microbial agents in bioremediation

The course offers a practical approach to the application of synthetic biology techniques for the engineering of microorganisms through the analysis of real case studies, exercises on genetic engineering protocols (including CRISPR‑Cas9 techniques and biological models), and project work focused on designing bioremediation strategies in different contamination contexts. Key topics include the interactions and adaptation of engineered microorganisms within environmental systems, biosafety, the decontamination of major pollutants through microbial enzymatic processes, evaluation of the effectiveness and efficiency of interventions, and discussion of ethical and regulatory issues associated with the environmental use of engineered microorganisms.

The course is intended for graduates with a background in biology, biotechnology, engineering, chemistry, and related fields. It is aimed at professionals who wish to specialize in integrating genetic and microbiological engineering techniques into the management and mitigation of anthropogenic environmental pollution, or in the communication and dissemination of these techniques. Participants will gain competencies in the design and management of bioremediation and biosafety protocols, while considering both the limitations and potential of synthetic biology technologies. Upon completion of the course, these skills may be applied in eco‑technological sectors such as contaminated site and wastewater remediation, the energy industry, the metallurgical sector, regulatory bodies, and R&D institutions involved in assessing ecological risks and developing biological agents for environmental applications.

Concepts of microbiology applied to bioremediation

Content:

• Bacteria used in bioremediation: biology and physiology. Mechanisms of degradation and enzymatic metabolism of pollutants, with microbial leaching as an example.
• Nutrient cycles in microorganisms: carbon cycle, syntrophy and methanogenesis, nitrogen, sulfur and iron cycles.
• Microbial adaptation strategies. Plant–microorganism symbiosis.
• DNA sequencing using Nanopore technology.
• Galleria mellonella as an in vivo model.
• Examples of successes and failures in microbial bioremediation.

Engineered microbial systems for bioremediation

Content:

• Introduction to synthetic biology applied to environmental systems.
• Advanced cloning techniques; genetic editing (e.g., CRISPR/Cas).
• Methods for transferring genetic material into microorganisms (electroporation, conjugation, viral vectors) and biocontainment strategies (monitoring and tracing the distribution of engineered bacteria).
• Gene expression modelling. Simulation of metabolic pathways. Design of genetic circuits in bacteria for bioremediation and analysis of real bioremediation projects (e.g., oil spills, wastewater treatment).

Ethics and regulation

Content:

• Introduction to the main ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) related to engineered microorganisms and their use in environmental bioremediation. Discussion of the ethical and bioethical challenges associated with synthetic biology.
• Overview of national, European, and global regulations related to synthetic biology, including the main international biosafety guidelines concerning emerging biotechnologies.

Course developed in collaboration with the University of Wrocław within the framework of the Arqus European Alliance, as part of the Arqus initiative “T06.3 Microcredentials for flexible learning”.

The general ranking of merit for the academic year 2025/26 will be published on the Italian page of this Course according to the timing provided in the Call.