Algae in Space and the Origin of Life: Helix Lab Presents Fall 2025 Tech Talks
How did life on Earth begin? Is it possible to grow food for astronauts in outer space? These are some of the questions presenters will dive into at this semester’s Tech Talks at Helix Lab.
In November, Helix Lab will welcome Johan Olsen, scientist, author, musician, and radio host, who will give a presentation on his research at the University of Copenhagen. His lecture focuses on the newest insights to the origin of life, a subject that has fascinated both scientists and the public for generations.
Equally fascinating is the contribution from the Danish Technological Institute, where researchers are exploring how algae can grow in microgravity. Their project, which sends algae to the International Space Station, investigates whether these microorganisms can become a sustainable protein source for future astronauts. The findings could have relevance not only for long-duration space missions but also for food production on Earth, where algae are already considered a promising resource in the transition to greener diets.
Helix Lab director Anette Birck believes that presenters like Johan Olsen, who is recognized for his ability to communicate complex knowledge in engaging and accessible ways, and a broad range of topics are an important principle within the program.
“This semester’s Tech Talks are very different and have elements of both hard and popular science. We’ve chosen this mix to cater to a broad audience of students, scientists, and anyone interested in the latest research and innovation,” she says.
A Strong Science Community
Beyond space research and life’s origins, this semester’s Tech Talks present diverse subjects. Researchers from DTU and Viegand Maagøe present their MLEEP-project, which investigates the potential and barriers of implementing data driven Machine Learning in the Danish process industry.
In December, researcher Alexander Huck will take the stage after a postponed appearance last semester. His project on Biomedical Quantum Sensing explores how quantum physics can be applied in medicine, potentially revolutionizing diagnostics and disease monitoring.
The choice of topics reflects Helix Lab’s ambition to provide both inspiration and accessible knowledge, while strengthening Kalundborg’s role as a growing science community.
The staircase auditorium serves as the gathering point for knowledge exchange, where local residents, students, and international experts meet, Management Consultant and Community Builder at Helix lab, Nanna Blume says.
“Tech Talks are where science meets community. The fall program will show how diverse perspectives, from biotech to sustainability, can inspire dialogue, ideas, and innovation right here in Kalundborg.”
The Tech Talk program runs from September to December with one talk each month.
See the full program and sign up here.
