From 7–9 October 2025, the BIOCTANE Summer School took place at the Hamburg University of Technology (TU Hamburg), bringing together 23 participants for an intensive 2.5-day training program on Productive Biofilms and Process Modeling.
Designed for PhD students and early-career researchers, the Summer School combined theoretical input with extensive hands-on experience. Participants began by assembling and operating their own experimental biofilm reactors at the Institute of Technical Microbiology (TMI). These practical sessions were complemented by process simulation exercises using Aspen Plus, guided by experts from the Institute of Environmental Technology and Energy Economics (IUE) as well as researchers specializing in biochemical engineering and process design.
Throughout the program, attendees engaged in laboratory work, flowsheet development, heat integration strategies, and discussions on key topics such as productive biofilms and microbial electrolysis. The interactive format encouraged questions, collaboration, and critical thinking in a highly interdisciplinary environment.
Beyond the technical content, the Summer School offered a valuable platform for networking—enabling participants to connect with fellow PhD students, exchange research ideas, and build new professional relationships.
