BEL (Biological Engineering Laboratory) research group is part of LEPABE (a research centre of the Faculty of Engineering since 1998) and is mainly focused in the study of Biofilms and their impact and applications in the health, industrial and environmental areas.
BEL contributes to the development of novel anti-biofouling materials by relating the surface properties to the initial cell adhesion and biofilm growth and detachment. This involves the characterization of biofilm components (cells, polymeric matrix) and structural features under different environmental conditions.
BEL research staff includes 4 leading scientists: Luis Melo, Filipe Mergulhao, Manuel Simoes and Nuno Azevedo. An average of 5 postdoctoral researchers and 15 PhD students work regularly on this team.
Contact: Luis F. Melo
Phone: +351 919 914 155
Email: lmelo@fe.up.pt
