The common unifying mission of the Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering is to integrate engineering, science, technology and management for sustainable use of renewable resources and enhancement of the environment.  Professor and Department Head, Dr. Shri RamaswamyThe Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering was formed on July 1, 2006, from the merger of the former departments of “Bio-based Products” and “Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering.” We are proudly celebrating 100 years (1909-2009) of engineering education, research, Extension and outreach. Our Vision is to be global leaders in the discovery, development and application of renewable resources and sustainable technologies to meet society's needs while enhancing the environment in Minnesota and beyond. TeachingWe produce well-educated citizens who are leaders in their chosen field and offer excellent educational programs that achieve global prominence. BBE attracts a diverse population of students through an array of opportunities that offer many bioproducts and biosystems-related career options. We offer both undergraduate and graduate programs related to bioproducts and biosystems engineering, bio-based products marketing and management and residential building science and technology. Our undergraduate bioproducts and Biosystems engineering major is offered through the Institute of Technology (IT), the University of Minnesota's college of engineering, physical sciences, and mathematics, in affiliation with the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS). ResearchWe conduct world-class research in a wide range of areas that contribute to sustainable and environmentally friendly manufacturing, use and application of bio-based products, environmental quality, enhance agricultural production, energy efficient “green” buildings, and provide safer and healthier foods. A leader in the burgeoning bioeconomy and addressing environmental sustainability, BBE advances the forefront of science, engineering and management knowledge in bioproducts and biosystems. With interdisciplinary expertise and a demonstrated track record in innovation and collaboration, the Department is poised for institutional and national leadership in bio-based economy and ecological health. The vibrant interdisciplinary character of our unit is enriched by continuous infusion of basic science expertise that advances the theory and praxis of our faculty and programs. Service and ExtensionWe are committed to making a public impact through community engagement and Extension efforts. We continue to strive to develop and deliver high quality, regionally and nationally-recognized research-based programs to meet current and emerging needs of industry and communities. Our extension and outreach programs use the results of our research to serve citizens in urban as well as rural communities in Minnesota and beyond. Our teaching, research, Extension and outreach activities are focused in four key areas: Our administrative home is in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences (CFANS). We are an affiliate department in the Institute of Technology and are also affiliated with the University of Minnesota Extension Service and the Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station.  Left: Undergraduates learn in the field (1919) during a Threshing short course blanket test; Right: Students still learn hands-on skills in the field alongside their professors. (2008)Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering Department | 
