Solar biotechnologies: harnessing light to power to solve global challenges | UQ

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The University of Queensland
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The Problem Solver Award
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Professor Hankamer leads a multidisciplinary team pioneering solar biotechnologies — using light-driven microalgae chemistry to convert solar energy into sustainable products and ecosystem services. This breakthrough “third way” of harnessing the sun's power goes beyond electricity and heat, transforming sunlight directly into renewable fuels, food and clean water.  

The team’s work addresses urgent global challenges including CO₂ reduction, food security and water purification, while leveraging Australia’s natural strengths — sunlight, space and scientific talent.

With solar energy capable of powering the world in just two hours, solar biotechnologies offer a scalable path to new green industries, jobs, and exports. Driven by purpose and innovation, Professor Hankamer’s research positions Australia as a global leader in sustainable solar solutions, demonstrating how science can turn energy abundance into environmental and economic resilience.

Entrant: Professor Ben Hankamer

Professor Ben Hankamer at UQ IMB Pinjarra Hills facility leading pioneering algae research in sustainable bio solutions

Behind the scenes finetuning algae production to unlock its full potential for a greener future- Professor Ben Hankamer, Dr Friederike Herrmann

Green gold in the making. The Hankamer Group cultivates algae to create clean energy and sustainable products. Professor Ben Hankamer and Dr Juliane Wolf

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