PRE2023-PID2022-HOLISTIC DIRECTED EVOLUTION PLATFORM FOR ENGINEERING PROMISCUOUS FUNGAL PEROXYGENASES-RAINBOW PROJECT--PID2022-142074OB-I00

Fungal unspecific peroxygenases (UPOs) are among the most promising biocatalysts in synthetic chemistry with dozens of biotechnological applications. In the last decade, our laboratory has pioneered the engineering of UPOs by combining directed evolution and computational approaches (https://miguelalcaldelab.eu). In RAINBOW project we pursue to construct a modular protein engineering platform aimed at opening up enzyme promiscuity while improving stability to convert UPO in a true industrial biocatalyst with applications in the pharma and chemical sectors. the PhD student within RAINBOW project will learn a broad repertory of state-of-the-art methods in protein engineering and evolution including the direct use of sophisticated robotic high-throughput screening platforms. More significantly, the PhD student will also learn key fundamentals of enzyme engineering from the generation of genetic diversity to protein biochemistry. Thereby, a Doctoral Thesis in the frame of RAINBOW will comprise the most relevant aspects for enzyme engineering while including concepts and methods on biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics and microbiology. We are seeking for a highly motivated student with the following requirements: - Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g. Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biology). - Ability to multitask and excellent time management skills. - Excellent communication and teamwork skills.