By Joycel Lagrio, STRATCOM Correspondent

The Mariano Marcos State University’s National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center (NBERIC) launched its bioenergy webinar series, Straight Direct Talks, with an opening session on biomass held via Zoom on April 29.

Dr. Aymerick Eudes, a scientist from the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in California, USA, served as the resource speaker for the first session. He delivered a presentation titled “Engineering Crops to Reduce Biomass Recalcitrance and Accumulate Value-Added Coproducts.”

In his talk, Dr. Eudes shared breakthroughs in genetic engineering aimed at enhancing biomass processing efficiency. He also highlighted his work at the Joint BioEnergy Institute in Emeryville, California, where he contributes to lowering the cost and complexity of biofuel production.

Dr. Eudes emphasized both scientific and economic challenges, specifically the role of biomass innovations in advancing global clean energy goals.

The event brought together researchers, students, and educators from MMSU’s Departments of Biological Sciences and Chemical Engineering. It was also attended by NBERIC Director James Paul Madigal, Vice President for Resource Generation and Management Bjorn Santos, and Vice President for Research, Development, and Innovation Nathaniel Alibuyog.

MMSU President Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr. commended NBERIC for spearheading the webinar series to advance discussions on bioenergy research, innovation, and production.

The next installment of Straight Direct Talks is scheduled for August, with upcoming sessions covering topics such as solar energy innovations, biogas technology, waste-to-energy systems, wind energy, and hydrogen technology.