1.   Feedstock Development - Improve performance of targeted bioenergy systems using the tools of agronomy, plant breeding, and genomics, and conduct assessments of bioenergy systems’ potential through field productivity trials and resource characterization.

2.   Bioprocessing Microbes and Enzymes - Identify and develop effective enzymes, organisms and consortia to process the complex structure and composition of cellulose, hemi-cellulose, and lignin to produce a promising source of catalysts and processing capability for converting biomass into useful and valuable fuels, chemicals, and materials.

3.   Biomass to Bio-products: New Platform Technologies - Investigate existing and novel platform technologies including both single or staged processes, that convert biomass to useful products through biochemical and thermochemical pathways with benign materials, second generation biofuels derived from non-food sources, higher energy efficiencies, and lowered operating temperatures and pressures.

4.   Modeling and Process Lifecycle Analysis - Construct models (mechanistic, empirical, economic, etc.) of bioenergy systems and conduct targeted analyses that will aid design, inform decision making, and identify life cycle impacts.

5.   Biofuels Use and Co-Product Development - Identify and develop commercially viable co-products at any point throughout the entire bioprocess from feedstock pretreatment to core product production for the purpose of improving biorefinery economics, safety, and environmental impact of bioenergy production.