Aino-Maija Lakaniemi

I lead the Production and processing of bio-based raw materials research group, manage research projects and teach industrial biotechnology, bioprocess engineering and process engineering in the Biotechnology and Food Engineering degree programme.

Our research focuses on the utilization of microorganisms, such as microalgae, fungi and/or bacteria, in various applications. The developed biotechnological processes can be utilized for example in production of bio-based chemicals and microbial biomass with targeted composition, in treatment of aqueous side streams as well as in capturing and recycling of carbon dioxide and nutrients.

I’m a Doctor of Science (Technology) and have almost 20 years of experience from research and development of biological processes and circular economy solutions. My special area of expertise is open bioprocesses, in which the aim is to promote the growth of desired microorganisms and prevent the growth of unwanted ones by finding selective growth conditions without the need for sterilization of the bioreactor, cultivation medium or feedstock.

I have experience from the development of a wide range of biological treatment processes and concepts for wastewater and side streams considering the composition, pH and other conditions of the stream to be treated. The conditions in the developed processes have varied widely (for example, e.g. pH 1.5–10, temperature 5–75°C and oxygen content from fully anaerobic to supersaturation of dissolved oxygen).

I have been involved in various company collaboration projects and activities related to research, development and innovation both from the perspective of a higher education institute and an industrial company. I am also used to working in multicultural work environments, and I have extensive experience from international cooperation, for example, through large EU projects and studying and working abroad.