The Laboratory’s interest in biosciences dates from its very early days, when the Atomic Energy Commission established Health Research Units in wartime laboratories to investigate the effects of radiation on living organisms. Throughout the decades since, Los Alamos has developed computer codes to understand DNA and proteins; a genetic-sequence database; and other instruments, such as the flow cytometer, to analyze and sort cells. Eventually, Los Alamos initiated research that evolved into the Human Genome Project.

Today, Los Alamos utilizes these capabilities to address DOE’s priorities in bioenergy, specifically, to transform domestic biomass and waste carbon resources into productive and affordable bioenergy and bioproducts. This work includes developing a comprehensive, genomics-based, understanding of organisms to create enhanced algae strains with better lipid production; developing better conversion processes; and innovating more efficient harvesting techniques. Los Alamos expertise in genomics is instrumental in the DOE bioenergy programs, particularly in the development of algal biofuels.

Research Areas

Mobilizing biomass and waste feedstocks
Understanding sustainability implications
Efficiently capturing and converting CO2
Developing carbon-efficient conversion processes
Collaborations on integrated processes

Key Capabilities

Feedstock characterization (terrestrial and algal)
Scale-up and testbed facilities and partnerships
Computational simulation and modeling
Multiple ‘omics characterization
Machine learning and artificial intelligence

Consortia

Los Alamos collaborates with industry, academia, and other national laboratories on developing transformative bioenergy solutions through the following DOE consortia:

Biofuels and Bioproducts

Biofuels and Bioproducts