HARNESSING NATURE: HOW SYNTHETIC BIOLOGY IS SHAPING THE BIOECONOMY
Tracks
SPEAKERS' CORNER RAMÓN MARGALEF
Wednesday, October 8, 2025 |
11:30 - 12:15 |
SPEAKERS' CORNER RAMÓN MARGALEF |
Overview
Sponsor:Navarra
Details
Synthetic biology is redefining how we harness nature to build a sustainable bioeconomy. By integrating AI-driven predictive modeling, biomanufacturing automation, and strategic public-private collaborations, synthetic biology is enabling breakthrough innovations in biomaterials, renewable energy, agriculture, and healthcare.
This round table brings together stakeholders from startups, corporates, academia, and policy-making to explore how synthetic biology is driving tangible impact, with a focus on Spain’s growing bioeconomy. The discussion will cover:
AI & Synthetic Biology (TechBio): How predictive modeling and virtual trials are accelerating bioengineering and technology transfer in healthcare and agriculture. Marc Güell will discuss how CRISPR-based therapies are revolutionizing healthcare.
Biomanufacturing & Industrial Scaling: The role of automation and microbioreactors in scaling synthetic biology solutions for biomaterials and biofuels. Maria del Mar González from Repsol will share insights on developing sustainable biofuels and circular biomaterials.
Sustainable Biotechnology and Biosolutions: Leveraging synthetic biology for a circular bioeconomy, focusing on emissions-reducing crops and regenerative agriculture. Sofie Carsten Nielsen will provide a strategic outlook on AgTech and FoodTech from the European Biosolutions Coalition.
Public-Private Collaboration and Policy Outlook: How evolving EU policies and strategic alliances are shaping the future of synthetic biology. Paul Freemont will discuss the role of biofoundries in accelerating commercialization and bridging academia and industry.
The panel will address key questions, including:
How can Spain leverage synthetic biology to lead in the European bioeconomy?
What are the latest trends in investment and public funding for synthetic biology startups?
What regulatory frameworks are needed to support growth in Europe’s bioeconomy?
This session will provide attendees with strategic insights and actionable knowledge, showing how synthetic biology and TechBio are catalyzing the bioeconomy and positioning Spain and Europe as leaders in sustainable biotechnology.
Speaker
Fran Antequera
ATG SynBio Spain
Moderator
Biography
Paul Freemont
UK Government’s Engineering Biology Steering Group
Speaker
Biography
Co-Chair, UK Government’s Engineering Biology Steering Group; Co-founder, Global Biofoundry Alliance; Member, World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Synthetic Biology; Professor, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
