Engineering Biology
As experts in chemical and biological measurement, we are leaders in establishing high accuracy methods, materials and standards for engineering biology to improve measurement confidence, ensure reliability and safety through responsible innovation. We develop novel metrological tools to improve biological analytical accuracy and provide training to upskill scientists and facilitate collaboration. This empowers research and facilitates translation to maximise the potential impact of engineering biology.
We play a central role in strengthening the UK’s bio-readiness, research capability, and innovation in engineering biology through a portfolio of strategic collaborations across public health, veterinary science, bioremediation and synthetic biology.
Strengthening UK research and biosecurity with on-site rapid DNA synthesis
We are building rapid DNA synthesis capability to accelerate engineering biology and strengthen national biosecurity. This infrastructure enables fast, traceable production of high‑quality nucleic acids for research, diagnostics, and emergency response, reducing reliance on overseas suppliers. By integrating traceability and advanced measurement tools, we enable safe design and characterisation, and validation of engineered systems, underpinning resilient, responsible innovation.
Advancing traceable bio-design in engineering biology
We are accelerating safe, reliable engineering biology by partnering with leading centres and institutes across health, agriculture and environmental restoration. We provide essential measurement tools for assay development to support projects like CYBER- which integrates engineering biology, AI and ecology to enable safe use of cyanobacteria for environmental restoration and to support GitLifeBioTech to detect DNA barcodes in engineered organisms. Our expertise is strengthening bio-design and biological traceability.
Connecting metrology and standards expertise to support the translation of innovation
Measurement of critical quality attributes for gene delivery tools
We continue to advance the measurement of critical quality attributes (CQAs) for gene delivery tools, including mRNA and viral vectors. These efforts are instrumental in supporting the development, validation, and application of technologies such as gene therapies and vaccines within the healthcare landscape.
Developing ISO standards for engineering biology
We lead internationally on the development of new (written) standards for engineering biology through international committees including the ISO 276 (Biotechnology) Technical Committee to develop consensus, standardise reporting and improve confidence across the sector. Examples include new standards to support gene expression analysis and gene delivery.
BBSRC funded metrology and standards training
We provide training on the importance of good measurement practice, metrology and standards to early-stage researchers for the 15 BBSRC funded Engineering Biology Centres of Excellence. This work supports skill development for the next generation of researchers, enabling them to deliver more robust, reproducible science as they address the complex challenges within engineering biology.
Get in touch
If you’re interested in exploring partnership opportunities with the NML or learning more about our measurement capabilities, we’d love to hear from you.