Understanding complex biological systems
The Biosciences Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory conducts transformative research to uncover new insights about complex biological systems and their interactions with the environment. With expertise and special facilities spanning genomics, computational biology, microbiology, microbial ecology, biophysics, structural biology, and plant sciences, the division advances Department of Energy (DOE) missions in energy and environmental research.
Leveraging cutting-edge technologies and collaborative approaches, we develop solutions for bioenergy, human health, and the environment. Our scientists …
- apply high performance computing to discover complex genetic traits critical to bioenergy, resilient crops, and more
- leverage ORNL’s neutron science capabilities to increase understanding of cell structure and intracell interactions
- develop biodesign tools to engineer safer, more reliable, and more productive plant-microbe systems
- inform development of new disease diagnostics and treatments through fundamental science discoveries
- examine the exchange of energy, information, and materials between plants and microbial communities, providing new insights into ecosystem dynamics
Our Science in Action
Advanced Plant Phenotyping Laboratory
APPL collects an unprecedented amount of data on plant characteristics called phenotypes.
Advancing Biotechnology Innovation
From engineering resilient crops to reprogramming microbes to produce new fuels, chemicals, and materials, ORNL is driving discoveries that keep the U.S. at the forefront of the biotechnology revolution.
Biosensors detect CRISPR activity
ORNL researchers developed a system to detect CRISPR gene editing activity in organisms.
Center for Bioenergy Innovation – The Center for Bioenergy Innovation, or CBI, is a DOE Bioenergy Research Center dedicated to developing domestic fuels, chemicals and products from resilient energy crops. CBI scientists accelerate innovations for efficient, cost-effective fuel and chemical production, eliminating economic barriers to new domestic fuel sources and advancing a thriving bioeconomy.
Advanced Plant Phenotyping Laboratory – ORNL’s Advanced Plant Phenotyping Laboratory, or APPL, helps scientists connect plant gene functions to observable traits. The system automates measurement of a range of key plant characteristics using one of the most diverse suites of plant imaging capabilities worldwide.
Center for Molecular Biophysics – Since 2006, researchers at the Center for Molecular Biophysics have been advancing molecular science, with support from ORNL and the University of Tennessee. The center uses high-performance computer simulations and biophysical experiments to study the structure and function of biologically relevant molecular systems.
“We push the boundaries of biology to develop transformative solutions that advance biotechnology, resilience, and biosecurity.”
Jesse Labbé
Biosciences Division Director
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