Cell-free conversion of sugars to platform chemicals for the manufacture of biofuels and biomaterials

This project is based on a collaboration between research teams from UQ and the Danish Technical University (DTU).

Two enzyme systems, ketolacid reductoisomerase (KARI) and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), are the main targets of this project. Both enzymes require the cofactor NAD(P)H for their function, and the regeneration of this cofactor is a major challenge for the cost-effective application of these enzymes in cell-free cascades. This and other enzymatic limitations will be addressed here in several project aims:

1. Ancestral sequence reconstruction to generate variants with improved catalytic properties.
2. Structural characterisation of the most promising (best performing) variants identified in Aim 1.
3. Immobilisation of the best-performing variants on electrodes for in situ cofactor regeneration.
4. Cascade optimisation.

The student will join a vibrant research environment with several postdoctoral researchers and PhD students. The available infrastructure includes state-of-the-art instrumentation for the production and characterisation of enzymes.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history

A working knowledge of enzymology, metalloenzymes and reaction mechanisms would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of biotechnology, and biochemistry and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of reaction modelling, in vitro evolution and mutagenesis is highly desirable.

Before you apply

Before submitting an application you should:

1. check your eligibility for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
2. prepare your documentation
3. contact Professor Gary Schenk (schenk@uq.edu.au) to discuss your interest and suitability
4. submit your application by 8 December, 2024 26 January, 2025.

When you apply

You apply for this scholarship when you submit an application for your program. You don’t need to submit a separate scholarship application.

In your application ensure that under the ‘Scholarships and collaborative study’ section you select:

• ‘My higher degree is not collaborative’
• ‘I am applying for, or have been awarded a scholarship or sponsorship'
• ‘Other’, then ‘Research Project Scholarship’ and in the ‘Name of scholarship’ field enter DTU-SCHENK.

Apply now