Understanding and exploiting biocatalysis: wiring electrons into proteins

Numerous essential enzymes rely on electron transfer reactions. However, getting simultaneous insight into reactivity and the structure of key catalytic intermediates has remained a major challenge. Yet, addressing this bottleneck is necessary to harness the full potential of these remarkably efficient biocatalytic transformations. 

In this project, we will build on the unique spectroelectrochemical toolkit (film-electrochemical electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy) we have developed [1-3] and take inspiration from the field of molecular electronics to ‘wire’ electrons directly into the deeply ‘buried’ active sites of enzymes. We will construct a series of molecular wires, building on principles that we have shown lead to improved performance of solar cells [4]. By anchoring these wires onto modular hierarchical electrodes, we will channel electrons directly into the active site of complex metalloproteins and investigate these unpaired electrons using advanced spectroscopic methods [5]. The advances in understanding the electron transfer processes that underpin respiration and photosynthesis will pave the way to healthy ageing and sustainable agriculture, whilst the methodologies developed will be widely applicable in chemical biology and beyond. 

For more information about the Roessler group, see https://www.imperial.ac.uk/roessler-lab/group/. The student will also have the opportunity to be integrated into the Institute of Chemical Biology at Imperial College (https://www.imperial.ac.uk/chemical-biology/), as well as the Centre for Pulse EPR spectroscopy (https://www.imperial.ac.uk/pulse-epr-facility/).

Candidates should e-mail Dr Roessler with their CV, detailed transcripts and motivation for joining the group. A first-class degree is a prerequisite for this competition-funded studentship.