Biocatalysis involves using one or more enzymes – either cell-free or whole cells – to convert a substrate into a value-added product. The Biocatalysis group strives to convert alkanes, alcohols, fatty acids, or monoterpenes into value-added building blocks of pharmaceuticals, bioplastics, cosmetics, flavours, or fragrances.
The research focuses strongly on solving the three-dimensional structures of relevant biocatalysts through X-ray crystallography to investigate structure-function relationships.
The research also involves catalyst improvement through rational design and directed evolution, metabolic engineering, and process development to further improve the industrial applicability of specific biocatalysts.