The Institute of Technical Biochemistry (IBT) is part of the Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences at the Technical University of Lodz (Poland). The IBT comprises more than 50 academics who are conducting research towards the biotechnological application of microorganisms and their enzymes to produce useful biomaterials. More specifically, the research is aimed at the improvement of existing technologies, and the development of new technologies for the food, pharmaceutical and chemical industry, and for environmental protection. The institute has a strong tradition of cooperation with the industry, and many technologies developed at the IBT have been patented. Several of these inventions have also won international prizes.