Biography

Dr Ka Yu Cheng is a Senior Research Scientist within the Resource Sector Biotechnology Team of Industrial Biotechnology Group in the Industry Environments Program of CSIRO Environment Business Unit. He obtained his B.Sc. (Hons) and M.Phil. Degrees (Environmental Science) in Hong Kong. He joined CSIRO in 2010 after obtaining his PhD from Murdoch University on developing biotechnical processes for wastewater treatment and resource recovery. His research has led to over 70 international journal publications (H-index 26), three patent applications and a water technology innovation award in 2008. He is the recipient of CSIRO Land & Water Young Scientist of the Year Award in 2012. In September 2018, he has been named as the leading Australian researcher in the field of biotechnology in The Australian's Research magazine. Currently, he conducts both fundamental and applied research in the field of industrial biotechnology and environmental engineering.

Dr Cheng has conducted research projects with a range of industry and agencies including the Water Corporation of Western Australia, Victoria EPA, NSW Environmental Trust, Direct Nickel, St Barbara, Newcrest, Vintage94, Evolution Mining Ltd, etc.

His research areas have included: (Bio)-treatment of municipal and industrial waste streams; biodegradation of contaminants and bioremediation of contaminated sites; sensors for monitoring biofilm formation; microbial electrochemical reactor technologies (e.g. microbial fuel/ electrolysis cells); mining biotechnology; and resource recovery.