Research

Research Interests

Dr. Peerhossaini is a Professor and Western Research Chair in Urban Resilience and Sustainability. In his laboratory, the main focus is on a wide range of research on the understanding of active fluids dynamics from a biophysical perspective. The properties of active fluids, such as self-propelled particles like bacteria and algae, fundamentally differ from passive fluids. In the Mechanics of Active Fluids and Bacterial Physics Laboratory, the endeavor are to further understand of flow and transport properties of microorganism suspensions, the formation of biofilms, and the behaviour of microorganisms both in their natural environment and on the lab scale.

The models and engineering solutions developed in this lab will provide a greater understanding of the mechanisms that allow microorganisms to move and adapt to their surroundings, as well as invade and negatively impact the environment including harmful algal blooms in water bodies.

This research will also demonstrate the potential uses of microorganisms in the production of value-added chemical molecules (lipids, pigments), and bio-fixation of carbon dioxide. Through this fundamental research, photobioreactor technologies are being developed to cover building façades in urban environments to absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide and produce value-added chemical molecules, and enable the development of energy-positive buildings through energy savings. 

RESEARCH GROUP

My Research Group Members