[SCAN] Enzyme Biotechnology for a Cleaner Planet

Speaker: Lígia O. Martins

Affiliation: Microbial & Enzyme Technology Lab

Abstract: The atmosphere is warming and the climate is changing with each passing year. One million of the eight million species on the planet are at risk of being lost. Forests and oceans are being polluted and destroyed. In the industrial sector, achieving net zero emissions, reducing the generation of wastes and attaining circular economy are goals to respond to these challenges. This requires full mobilization of R&D efforts to produce “sustainable products” from renewable feedstock’s through the implementation of enzymatic and microbial bio-processes. The investigation of enzymes is therefore of utmost importance and are part of the solution to the current key global challenges. In my lab the research activities are in the interface of protein science and protein technology, in the so-called area of Industrial Biotechnology. We target the discovery of new enzymes, their biochemical characterization, their engineering to improve performance and robustness, and the design of bioprocesses for the synthesis, degradation or valorization of xeno or natural aromatic compounds. In parallel, we want to contribute for answering the long-standing question in protein science of “how function and structure are related” and of molecular mechanisms of enzyme fitness evolution. In this talk, I will introduce my lab vision, mission, people involved and will highlight some of the last results achieved.

Zoom webinar - ITQB NOVA Virtual auditorium

https://zoom.us/j/729768442