Dr. Christiane Funk

Biography

Christiane Funk's research focuses on plant proteases and their potential use in Nordic microalgae for wastewater reclamation and biomass generation. As a professor at Umeå University, her work delves into the biological functions of proteases, which are crucial for processes such as protein digestion and cell signaling. She employs molecular biological and biochemical methods to investigate these functions in model organisms ranging from cyanobacteria to higher plants. One of her key research areas is the efficient conversion of sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis, particularly in the context of microalgae's ability to clean wastewater while producing biomass for biofuels and other applications. Given the challenges presented by the sub-arctic climate in Northern Sweden, she is actively exploring local algal strains for their performance in wastewater treatment and biomass analysis. Her dedication to these subjects is highlighted through various research projects and publications, underscoring her expertise in aquatic science and sustainable biobased solutions.

Research Interests

Experience