Avjet Biotech, a Pinehurst-based bio-sciences company, has named MMI Public Relations as its public relations agency of record.

MMI, a full-service firm based in Pinehurst, will assist Avjet Biotech in the development and implementation of a strategic public relations campaign that incorporates media relations, strategic planning and community relations, a news release said.

Avjet Biotech has secured exclusive rights to a technology portfolio developed at N.C. State University for producing biofuels from triglycerides (fats) and for producing products from genetically modified marine microalgae.

As the exclusive licensee for the commercialization of these technologies, Avjet Biotech will sell stock and use the funds raised to reimburse the university for its investment in patent applications, as well as allocate development capital to create a continuous production model for the biofuel refining system.

"We are excited to work with Avjet Biotech to increase awareness of the unique refineries that they are creating," said Patty Briguglio, president of MMI Public Relations. "We commend Avjet's commitment to reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and we look forward to assisting the company with its public relations efforts."

Avjet Biotech Inc. is a leading developer and builder of small distributive refining systems in the 10- to 15-million-gallon-per-year range. Its Red Wolf Refining division creates superior transportation biofuels, while its microbiology division, Pinehurst Biologics, produces algae- based products through genetics.

The company is dedicated to supporting the U.S. military in its goal to eliminate dependence on foreign oil, the news release said.

More information about the company can be found on its website, http://www.avjetbiotec--h.com.