The Centre

The Centre for Applied Colloid Science was established in the Department of Applied Chemistry at Swinburne in 1980, at which time its research activities were principally focussed on studying the physical chemistry of colloidal systems. The research activities of this centre were expanded in 1986 to include research into biological systems, and hence the centre was renamed the Centre for Applied Colloid and BioColloid Science, becoming one of Swinburne University of Technology's main research centres. The Centre resides in the School of Engineering and Science at Swinburne's Hawthorn campus. In 2002, participation in the centre expanded, and the was renamed the Environment and Biotechnology Centre to more accurately reflect the current range of research activities being undertaken.

The Centre promotes the development of both applied and industrial research in both environmental science and biotechnology. The Centre currently has 16 academic staff and over 30 research students, possessing expertise in fields as diverse as bioactive compound production and extraction, surface and colloid science, molecular biology, bioremediation and composting, public and environmental health, biosensors, enzyme technology, heavy metal removal, tissue engineering, nanotechnology and pulp and paper bioprocessing.

Today, with strong links to industry, the Centre is strongly focussed on industrial biotechnology and environmental research. Operating as a contact point for visiting members of staff from both local and overseas academic institutions, companies and government authorities, the Centre has become a strong focal point of postgraduate research for many industries.