Dr Carmien Tolmie working with X-ray Crystallography

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.

Combining Heterogeneous Catalysis and Biocatalysis

Cytochrome P450 Monooxygenases

Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenases

Cascade Reactions