David Strik

Dr. David Strik is an Associate Professor at Wageningen University's Department of Environmental Technology and serves as Platform Manager of UNLOCK, a large-scale infrastructure for microbial research. He focuses on biorefinery approaches to advance the circular economy through microbial processes in open-culture bioreactors. His work includes converting organic, bioplastic, and CO₂ waste into biochemicals via microbial chain elongation and electrochemical recovery techniques. Research tools include life cycle assessments and techno-economic analyses to evaluate technologies' feasibility.

Education: PhD in Anaerobic Digestion (BOKU University, 2004); MSc in Environmental Sciences (Wageningen University, 1999). Professional roles include leading the Carboxylate Group, which develops systems for carbon material recovery and bioelectrochemical processes. He contributes to interdisciplinary projects like AVIATION FUEL FROM BIOMASS STREAMS and UNLOCK-Unlocking Microbial Potential.

Research interests emphasize microbial electrosynthesis, carboxylate platform development, and sustainable waste valorization. His articles (2021–2025) explore topics such as carbon capture via syngas fermentation, microbial catalyst formation, and bioelectrochemical systems for CO₂ conversion. He teaches courses on environmental technology, biorefinery, and circular economy strategies.

Labs/Teams: Coordinates the Carboxylate Group and oversees UNLOCK facilities. Engages in applied research bridging academic and industrial partnerships.