The yeast we can do?

Our Mission

At the Wild Yeast Zoo, we’re on a mission to explore the hidden world of wild yeast. Our citizen science program takes a unique twist: we invite participants to gather wild yeast from native flora, refine and genotype it, and then use it in diverse applications. Here’s how we’re making an impact:

1. Biodiversity Conservation

• By collecting yeast samples from diverse natural environments, we contribute to the preservation of biodiversity. Each yeast strain we discover represents a unique piece of the ecological puzzle.

• Our work helps raise awareness about the importance of native flora and their role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

• Wild Yeast Zoo is committed to ethical and legal practices. We adhere to the Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization to protect our discoveries and ensure that benefits flow back to the communities and environments that contribute to our research.

2. Community Engagement

• We involve citizen scientists, brewers, and curious individuals in our project. Through workshops, events, and online platforms, we foster a sense of community and shared purpose. For example, we recently participated in the 2023/4 Woodford Folk Festival, where our diverse team of experts collected samples with citizen scientists. The festival site, regenerated with subtropical rainforest trees, provided a perfect backdrop for our work.

• Participants learn about microbiology, genetics, and brewing techniques, empowering them to become stewards of their local environment.

• Our presence at festivals and events allows us to engage with a broader audience, spreading the word about wild yeast and its potential.

3. Scientific Discovery

• Our collaboration with citizens and industry allows us to enhance the yeast collection process. We perform genetic sequencing and describe the fermentation characteristics of each yeast strain.

• These findings contribute to scientific knowledge and may lead to new applications in the creation of fermented beverages and biotechnology-driven commerce such as biofuels, sustainable agriculture and future food production.

5. Industry Partnerships

• We’re proud to collaborate with industry partners who share our passion for wild yeast. These partnerships strengthen our impact and allow us to reach more people.

• Check out our Industry Partners page for a full list of collaborators.

6. Research Commercialization

• Commercialization plays a crucial role in taking our discoveries beyond the lab. We explore opportunities to commercialize our wild yeast strains, whether in brewing, biotechnology, or other applications.

• Currently, our team is participating in the CSIRO ON Accelerate Program, which accelerates the translation of scientific innovations into real-world products and services.

• Through this program, we aim to bring our wild yeast strains to market, benefiting both the brewing industry and environmental conservation.

Join the Movement!

Wild Yeast Zoo is more than a project; it’s a movement. Together, we’re unlocking the secrets of yeast, one sample at a time. Join us on this exciting journey by participating, learning, and celebrating the wonders of nature.

For more information, reach out to us at wildyeastzoo@outlook.com.