CMET is specialized in the study and application of mixed microbial cultures or communities. A microbial community consists of several populations, which each represent a functional biological entity and thus a diverse metabolic capacity. The assemblage of these biological entities represents -when properly organized- a powerful resource. CMET researchers focus on the optimal management of these microbial resources. We define it as Microbial Resource Management (MRM), enabling us to develop novel products and (technological) processes to improve our environment or human health in the most sustainable way.

More specifically, CMET applies this approach in the fields of Abatement & prevention of bacterial diseases, Applied microbial ecology‬‬‬‬‬, Host-microbe interaction technology, Life support systems for space‬, Microbial electrocatalysis & electrochemical engineering, Resource recovery and valorization, and Water treatment and production.