Excursion to the Köthen Center of Excellence for Algae Biotechnology

On May 4, 2026, we visited the Center of Excellence for Algae Biotechnology (CAB) at Hochschule Anhalt. There, a multidisciplinary team led by Prof. Dr. Carola Griehl is engaged in the biotechnological extraction of valuable substances and active ingredients from microalgae. Among other things, we were given a glimpse into the strain collection, which currently comprises over 300 strains of microalgal cultures from freshwater and terrestrial habitats and is continuously being expanded with new strains. We were also able to observe the cultivation of microalgae on various scales, right up to the transfer of processes from the laboratory to industrial practice (fir tree reactor). Carola Griehl showed us the diverse possibilities for extracting valuable substances from algae—such as healthy fats, dyes, natural-product-based therapeutics, and bioplastics—using her impressive collection of algae products. She gave us a glimpse into the diversity and immense potential that algae offer. Last but not least, we ate algae cookies and drank algae smoothies.