EBRU is an institution of Rhodes University which targets research in Environmental Biotechnology at the interface between the fundamental and applied sciences. Its main area of focus has been innovation and development of environmental bioprocesses related to water treatment.

Its basic research activities are supported by a strong emphasis on technology transfer from laboratory studies to full-scale industrial process applications, and a number of bioprocess plants have been constructed in various parts of South Africa.

In addition to participating in the training of  post-graduate students, EBRU researchers undertake consultancy support to industry in areas related to industrial and domestic wastewater treatment, alternative energy and bio fuels, rehabilitation and pollution control, and technology assessment and transfer.

The Institute is located on the campus of the University’s Environmental Experimental Field Station in Grahamstown, South Africa, where its main analytical, molecular microbial ecology, microbiology and bioprocess laboratories are situated. Integrated Ponding Systems and mine water treatment pilot plants are also operated here.