Evolving reductive dehalogenases for efficient bioremediation

This PhD project will develop tools, knowledge and training in world-class bioscience by studying complex metalloenzymes responsible for reductive dehalogenation in vitro and in vivo. Combined with biophysical studies (including advanced spectroscopy, protein film voltammetry and structural biology), we will use laboratory evolution to generate variants with suitable properties in terms of substrate scope.

This will provide understanding of the natural process of bacterial organohalide respiration, and a blueprint for application in bioremediation. This will provide PhD candidate a wide range of lab-based practical skills, including data processing and computational approaches to answer biological questions. The research project will explore new ways of working, by integrating innovative tools and technological approaches for the generation of new reductive dehalogenase catalysts.