Biomass chemistry. Biomass for modern biotechnology applications. Biofuel suitability and feasibility for different application. Advanced modern methods for biomass treatment and handling. Complex thermal biomass conversion (gasification, pyrolysis, liquefaction). Principles of biochemical biomass conversion. Environmental impact of biomass production and use. Bio-based fuel additives. Lignin conversion and levulinic acid and furfural conversion. Industrial Microbiology and biotechnology: Types and methods of optimization of products- substrate level, physiological level, genetic level. Process optimization, selection of appropriate substrates, computer aided optimization-Modelling and simulation for product optimization using Design expert software, Minitab, Sigma Plot, Ms Excel etc. Metabolic and Genetic engineering for improved yield. Genetically Modified Organisms, Merits and demerits.