BACKGROUNDDuring recent years several computer-based operator training simulators (OTS) have been developed that are suitable for the virtual training of operators and other professionals. In the field of bioprocess engineering OTS are rarely used. Furthermore, the effects of using training simulators in bioprocess applications have not been evaluated. RESULTSThe OTS BioProcessTrainer was applied to bioreactor operations for two biological processes, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, for ethanol production, and recombinant Escherichia coli, for production of green fluorescence protein (GFP). The simulator used a multi-shell model platform that described the biological and physical conditions of the bioreactor for the two bioprocess systems. The simulator enabled the user to plan, operate and control the processes in real or accelerated time. The training resulted in improved ability to manage the whole bioreactor procedure for the two processes. CONCLUSIONThe study showed that the simulator can be an efficient tool for training of operation, optimization and control of bioprocesses. The mathematical model framework of the simulator can be adapted to a variety of industrial bioprocesses. Thus, it appears likely that this type of OTS may serve as a useful resource in industry for training and continuing education of plant operators and engineers. (c) 2013 Society of Chemical Industry