Ecosystem for Microbiome Methods & Applications (EMMA) is a unique valorization platform within the University of Antwerp that helps to translate in-depth scientific research into market-ready innovations.

The platform was created in response to the urgent need for reliable, scientifically grounded expertise in a rapidly growing field where knowledge is often fragmented between academia and industry. The microbiome field is evolving continuously. We believe that the future of health, nutrition, sustainability, and innovation lies in understanding and harnessing the microbiome.

EMMA brings together the expertise of the LAMB lab, led by Prof. Sarah Lebeer, an internationally renowned team that has been pioneering microbiome research for years across humans, animals, plants, food, and the environment. Combining this strong scientific foundation with an entrepreneurial mindset, EMMA creates an ecosystem where innovative companies and researchers can access state-of-the-art analyses, co-creation, and strategic guidance.

EMMA is powered by a multidisciplinary team within the LAMB lab at the University of Antwerp, under the leadership of Prof. Sarah Lebeer.

Our team consists of microbiologists, bioinformaticians, clinical project managers, and lab technicians, all specialized in translating complex microbial insights into industrial value.

In collaboration with a business developer, we maintain a strong focus on valorization: from target selection to clinical research, from data analysis to regulatory strategy. This structure allows us to guarantee quality and transparent, reliable collaboration with real impact.

• Innovative microbiological characterization & targeted strain selection
  EMMA has access to a unique collection of more than 4,000 bacterial strains and extensive expertise in isolating, characterizing, and selecting microorganisms. Through in silico, in vitro, and in vivo analyses, we assess their genetic potential, safety, and functional properties. We help partners identify targeted strains for applications in areas such as nutrition, human health, skin care, and animal health, and support them in scaling, formulation, and optional licensing of these strains.
• Clinical research including microbiome analysis
  EMMA designs, coordinates, and executes clinical studies focused on the microbiome, both observational and interventional. We support partners throughout the entire process: from protocol development and ethical submissions to recruitment, sampling, biobank management, and final reporting. Thanks to our network of clinicians and experience with citizen science, we provide unique expertise to carry out studies efficiently, ethically, and with strong scientific rigor.
• Advanced Microbiome Analytics
  Leveraging state-of-the-art sequencing and multi-omics technologies, EMMA helps companies gain deep insight into microbial communities and translate these into strategic value. We perform high-quality metagenomics, genome sequencing, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, supported by advanced bioinformatics pipelines and statistical analyses. Our experts deliver clear interpretations, dashboards, and reports that enable better decision-making in R&D and product development.

EMMA supports companies, research institutions, and organizations working on microbial or microbiome-driven solutions, innovation, or scientific substantiation. We are active across a wide range of domains, including food & fermentation as well as women’s/skin/animal/plant health.