Exploring bacterial nanoparticle biosynthesis with synthetic biology

Interested individuals must follow Steps 1, 2 and 3 at this link on how to apply
http://www.ed.ac.uk/biology/prospective-students/postgraduate/pgr/how-to-apply

Morganella sp. has been shown to synthesise elemental metal nanoparticles [1] which can be used in applications such as antimicrobials [2] and catalysts [3]. Copper nanoparticle biosynthesis is a result of the bacterium’s heavy metal resistance pathway that transforms the copper ions into an inert form, minimising their interaction with the host cells. Establishing a library of characterised parts for gene expression will aid in making this strain a chassis for metal bioremediation applications.

In this PhD project the student will examine the native bacterial system, its potential for genetic manipulation and opportunities for its application. This may involve the characterisation of promoters and ribosomal binding sites with reporter genes, the optimisation of proteins in the synthesis pathway and investigation of the resultant effects on the metal resistance exhibited by the organism. The student will receive training in molecular biology and biochemistry, with an emphasis on synthetic biology approaches for characterising expression levels. The work in this project will provide the necessary tools and knowledge needed to improve upon the current nanoparticle synthesis yields for industrial purposes.

Lab website: http://horsfall.bio.ed.ac.uk/