Professor Sergey Dobretsov is the UNESCO Chair in Marine Biotechnology at Sultan Qaboos University, Oman, and serves on the boards of both the International Society for Marine Biotechnology and the European Society for Marine Biotechnology. Previously, he held the position of President of the European Society for Marine Biotechnology for several years. With 25 years of teaching experience, he has supervised numerous under- and postgraduate students across universities in Russia, Oman, Germany, and China. Recognized as one of the top 100,000 scientists globally by Stanford University, he has over 34 years of experience working with polar, temperate, and tropical marine communities in leading research centers. His primary research focuses on marine biotechnology, particularly in developing non-toxic antifouling solutions, studying the microbiome of marine organisms, marine natural products, and exploring microbial-host chemical interactions. He has actively participated in various international projects within these domains. Professor Sergey has published more than 160 papers in international peer-reviewed journals and authored two books, in addition to securing five international patents. He is also a member of the editorial boards for several high impact journals, including Marine Ecology Progress Series, Biofouling, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, and Frontiers in Nanotechnology.
Abstract
From Ocean to Innovation: Sustainable Frontiers in Marine Biotechnology
Professor Sergey Dobretsov
UNESCO Chair in Marine Biotechnology, Center of Excellence in Marine Biotechnology, Department of Marine Science and Fisheries, Sultan Qaboos University
This presentation will focus on the vast potential of marine biotechnology in fostering sustainable solutions across various industrial sectors. The talk will begin with an overview of marine biotechnology, with a significant emphasis on the process of biofouling and its innovative prevention strategies, including the development of non-toxic antifouling agents derived from marine organisms. The role of marine natural products as pharmaceuticals to address health issues such as cancer and antimicrobial resistance will also be highlighted. Additionally, the presentation will provide examples of compounds and coatings derived from shrimp waste, showcasing sustainable waste management practices that yield valuable products. Finally, the presentation will conclude with a discussion on the main challenges facing marine biotechnology today and future perspectives that could shape this dynamic field, paving the way for innovative applications that benefit both society and the environment.