The funding will help the University explore how natural materials can be used in industrial products and processes and enable it to work with global businesses in life sciences, pharmaceuticals, energy and manufacturing, says Energy and Rural Affairs Secretary Lesley Griffiths.
Projects include identifying and isolating enzymes in extremophiles and exploring how they could be used to transform industrial processes.
“Supporting initiatives that further pioneering scientific research is a key aim of the Welsh Government,” Griffiths says. “This investment will create a center of excellence for ground-breaking research, encouraging inward investment and ensure Wales can take advantage of the economic impact that this rapidly expanding industrial area could bring. This is one of many examples of how EU funds are supporting our nation’s economy, supporting growth and jobs, and demonstrates the importance of Wales receiving replacement funding from the UK Government after we leave the EU.”