Bernhard Drosg

Bernhard Drosg is a Researcher at the Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU). He is actively engaged in cutting-edge research on biogas, anaerobic digestion, and the integration of microalgae and cyanobacteria into sustainable biorefineries. His work focuses on nutrient recovery, waste valorization, and the production of bio-based materials such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). He has led and participated in numerous national and international research projects, including long-term involvement in IEA Bioenergy Task 37.

His research interests include environmental biotechnology, biogas process optimization, anaerobic digestion of organic residues, nutrient recycling from digestates, microalgae and cyanobacteria cultivation, carbon dioxide utilization, and sustainable bioplastics production. His work bridges biochemical engineering with circular economy principles, aiming to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of bioenergy systems and biorefineries.

His recent publications show a strong trend toward integrating biological processes for environmental benefit and resource recovery. A significant focus is on phototrophic production of bioplastics using cyanobacteria, valorizing waste streams like biogas digestate and starch wastewater, and assessing methane emissions from biogas plants. These works span disciplines such as environmental science, biotechnology, microbiology, and sustainable engineering, emphasizing circular systems, waste-to-resource strategies, and climate-friendly technologies.

• Energy Globe Award Austria (sustainable plastics)
• EPCON Award (2nd place)
• Lower Austrian Innovation Award (Research Institutions Category)
• IFA Tulln acquisition award 2014
• Science2business award (recognition award)
• Nomination for the Lower Austrian Innovation Award - Karl Ritter von Ghega Award
• ASAG scholarship for short-term scientific stays abroad

Bernhard Drosg has supervised several master’s and doctoral theses on topics including bioplastic production with cyanobacteria, microalgae for anaerobic digestion, and digestate treatment. He has secured funding from various sources including FFG, FWF, EU, and industry partners. His leadership in projects such as IEA Bioenergy Task 37 and CO2USE highlights his role in advancing biogas and carbon utilization research. He also contributes to scientific dissemination through popular science articles and project reports.

He is involved in key research networks and advisory roles, including the Scientific Advisory Council of the European Biogas Association and the International Energy Agency (IEA Bioenergy Task 37). He has organized international workshops and training events, particularly for institutions in Peru, demonstrating a strong commitment to knowledge transfer and capacity building. His laboratory and team focus on phototrophic biotechnology, anaerobic digestion systems, and integrated biorefinery concepts.