Enzymatic Synthesis – Enzyme Characterization and Cascade Engineering
Project Details
Program
BioScience
Field of Study
Biochemistry
Division
All Divisions
Faculty Lab Link
Center Affiliation
KAUST Catalysis Center
Project Description
Biocatalysis has found numerous applications in various fields as a green and sustainable alternative to chemical catalysis. The potential of using enzymes in organic synthesis is high, especially to make chiral compounds for pharmaceuticals. The project focuses on the expression, purification and characterization of various enzyme classes for different synthesis targets. The enzymes will be tested alone or in combination in aqueous catalysis reactions and the influence of composition on selectivity and reactivity will be studied.
Project-duration will be 3-6 month, details of arrival/departure dates to be discussed.
About the Researcher
Magnus Rueping
Professor, Chemistry
Affiliations
Education Profile
- Postdoctoral fellow, Harvard University
- Ph.D., ETH Zurich
- B.Sc./M.Sc., Technical University of Berlin
Research Interests
Professor Rueping's research interests include organocatalysis, metal catalysis and biocatalysis; new reaction methodology and technology; smart materials, photochemistry and flow chemistry.Selected Publications
- H.-H. Liao, A. Chatupheeraphat, C.-C. Hsiao, I. Atodiresei, M. Rueping. ""Asymmetric BrA¸nsted Acid Catalyzed Synthesis of Triarylmethanes - Construction of Communesin- and Spiroindoline Scaffolds."" Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 54, 15540-15544
- M. Nakajima, E. Fava, S. Loescher, Z. Jiang, M. Rueping. ""Photoredox-Catalyzed Reductive Coupling of Aldehydes, Ketones, and Imines with Visible Light."" Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 54, 8828-8832
- D. C. Fabry, M. A. Ronge, J. Zoller, M. Rueping. ""C-H Functionalization of Phenols Using Combined Ruthenium and Photoredox Catalysis: In Situ Generation of the Oxidant."" Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 54, 2801-2805
- S. Raja, M. Nakajima, I. Atodiresei, M. Rueping. ""Combined Experimental and Computational Study for the First Catalytic Asymmetric 4p-Elektrocyclization of N-Heterocycles."" Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 54, 2762-2765
- M. Leiendecker, C.-C. Hsiao, L. Guo, N. Alandini, M. Rueping. ""Metal-Catalyzed Dealkoxylative Caryl-Csp3 Cross-Coupling - Replacement of Aromatic Methoxy Groups Employing a Functionalized Nucleophile"" Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 53, 12912-12915
Desired Project Deliverables
Students shall extend their general knowledge and skills in molecular biology and protein biochemistry. An emphasis will be put on expression, purification and characterization techniques. Students will be taught to work independently on projects, yet strengthening their critical sense to develop new ideas. In the course of the internship students shall demonstrate this understanding during oral presentations and one final written report.
Recommended Student Background
A background in biochemistry is preferred, but students with backgrounds in chemistry, biotechnology or biology are invited to apply.
The ideal candidates should have some experience or interest in conducting standard enzymatic experiments.
Experience with or interest in learning laboratory skills associated with analytical chemistry is beneficial.