THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
BioTechnology Institute
About BTI
BTI Director, Claudia Schmidt-Dannert
Since its inception in 1984, The BioTechnology Institute (BTI) has supported world-class biotechnology research at the University of Minnesota and provides critical infrastructure, training, and connections to partners in the state’s thriving biotechnology industry. Through the Biotechnology Training Program and the Graduate Program in Microbial Engineering, and our research initiatives, cutting-edge microbial cell fermentation and downstream processing services, we continue to support research within the University and serve as a vital link to industry partners.
Biotechnology Resource Center (BRC)
The BRC provides contract development and manufacturing services for University researchers and external partners. The BRC is a vital part of the state’s thriving biotech ecosystem.
Biotechnology Training
BTI is home to the NIH supported Biotechnology Training Program which provides interdiscplinary, lab-based training and mentorship for students pursuing careers in academia and industry.
Graduate Program
BTI’s Graduate Program in Microbial Engineering draws on faculty from across the University in a dual-track program designed for students coming from life science and engineering backgrounds.
MnDRIVE Environment
BTI is home to the MnDRIVE Environment initiative. The initiative provide funding for novel approaches to bioremediation and supports the scale-up of promising solutions that protect our environment while driving economic growth state-wide. MnDRIVE partners with local industry, state and local governments, and nonprofits to connect evidence-based solutions to the communities we serve.
Research News
Learn About Our Research
BTI is home to cutting-edge research in bioremediation, synthetic biology, protein engineering, and natural product discovery. Read our Gateway blog for stories about research, partnerships with local industry and the impact of our work on communities across Minnesota.
Seminars and Events
Our seminar and event series supports the research and educational mission of the University through a weekly lecture series, symposia, and community programming. Fall semester lectures and seminars will be held online via Zoom. Please see our fall schedule for registration details.
BTI is an interdisciplinary research institute whose members come from departments and colleges across the University.
