Ash Rhys Norcott

Ash is a Norwich Research Park Doctoral Training Program (NRPDTP) iCASE funded PhD student. He is a molecular microbiologist with a specific interest in the sustainable production of high-value products from seaweeds. Currently, Ash is developing a microbial fermentative process to convert seaweed biomass into bio-acrylic acid – a platform chemical extensively used in plastics, absorbents and paints industries that is currently only made from non-renewable sources. Through this work, he aims to contribute to the development of innovative biotechnological solutions for a more sustainable and circular economy, leveraging the potential of seaweed-based resources in a rapidly growing bioeconomy.