The Fermentation Service provides pilot-plant scale production of microbiological organisms for Cancer Research UK funded scientists.

Batch, Fed-batch and Continuous cultures of ten to one hundred litres of yeast, bacteria or nematodes are produced under stringently controlled conditions using four state-of-the-art fermenters.

It is possible to add nutrients or induction chemicals at any point during a run. Computer control of the main growth parameters (pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, agitation and aeration) enable a wide spectrum of growth conditions and reproducibility of product. Quality control is maintained by regular vessel sampling, and metabolite testing ensures the final product meets customer specification.

The types of organisms we grow routinely are yeasts (Saccharomyces cervisiae, Schizosaccharomyces pombe and Pichia pastoris), bacteria (E.coli and Apermix, a thermophile) and nematodes (C.elegans).

The product can be sent as a frozen cell pellet or further processed to produce concentrated protein extracts.   Please click here for a list of Fermentation Service charges.