International cooperation with Santa Clara University

24.11.2025 |

From 20 to 25 October, a delegation from the Deggendorf Institute of Technology (DIT), consisting of Prof. Dr. Jeff Wilkesmann and Dr. Richard Janissen, visited Santa Clara University (SCU) and Stanford University in the USA. The purpose of the visit was to promote international cooperation within the context of a scientific project.

Development of novel biocatalysts

DIT researchers are collaborating with Professor Prashanth Asuri (Santa Clara University, SCU) to develop novel biocatalysts that will facilitate the degradation of cellulose-rich agricultural biowaste. During their visit to SCU and Stanford University, the participants exchanged ideas on the project 'Next-generation enzymes and bio-scaffolds for promoting the biodegradation of cellulose waste', which is funded by the Bavarian-California University Centre. The project's main objective is to produce highly active, industrially robust enzymes suitable for large-scale industrial use.

Future joint research projects and educational initiatives

The stay in the USA also laid an excellent foundation for future joint research projects and educational initiatives in bioengineering. Furthermore, collaboration and innovation between DIT and SCU were strengthened. In March 2026, Prof. Prashanth Asuri will travel to Lower Bavaria and give a guest lecture at the Transformation Lab on the Oberschneiding campus, which will also be open to the general public. 

Bild (DIT): Prof. Korin Wheeler (SCU), Dr. Richard Janissen (THD), Prof. Dr. Jeff Wilkesmann (THD) and Prof. Prashanth Asuri (SCU).