Bioproducing a weight loss fibre product from algal waste

Introduction:

Demand for natural weight loss remedies is exceptionally high. With Central Pharma Biotechnica Limited (Biotechnica), this PhD aims to develop a cost-effective and low carbon emission, microbial route to bioproduce a high-value weight loss fibre product from seaweed waste. Currently, our seaweed-derived fibre contains sulfur molecules that confer it bad tastes and smells. Microbial fermentation is our chosen route to safely remove these compounds. Our product would enhance the seaweed industry and offer natural and safe routes to weight loss and fibre provision. This PhD provides multidisciplinary training, the environment and award-winning pilot work for the student to build upon and develop/optimise our unique Intellectual Property (IP) for industry. Additionally, the successful applicant will conduct an industrial placement at Biotechnica.

Methodology:

You will be trained in molecular microbiology to isolate and/or genetically manipulate proprietary microbial strains that remove sulfur compounds present in seaweed-derived fibres. You will learn analytical chemistry techniques, e.g. nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and gas chromatography, to monitor sulfur compound removal. You will investigate growth conditions in batch and ultimately in bioreactor settings that optimise sulfur compound removal by the strains you generate but which retain the beneficial fibre properties. Finally, throughout the PhD, you will be encouraged to interact with industry to explore routes to market for the IP you develop.

Training:

You will receive exceptional training at UEA and Biotechnica in molecular biology, fermentation, analytical and organic chemistry, coastal fieldwork, industrial networking and in writing publications and IP protection. You will learn good laboratory and manufacturing practices, present your findings at weekly team meetings, high-profile international scientific conferences, write peer-reviewed scientific publications and your PhD thesis.

Person specification:

We require a committed, pro-active, and self-reliant student keen to master a wide range of techniques. Experience in some of the key components is desirable.

References

Todd JD et al., (2007). Structural and regulatory genes required to make the gas dimethyl sulfide in bacteria. Science 315:666-669.

Curson ARJ et al., (2011). Catabolism of dimethylsulfoniopropionate: microorganisms, enzymes and genes. Nature Reviews Microbiology 9: 849-859.

Hopkins FE et al., (2023). The biogeochemistry of marine dimethylsulfide. Nature Reviews Earth & Environment 4:361-376.

Curson ARJ et al., (2018). DSYB catalyses the key step of dimethylsulfoniopropionate biosynthesis in many phytoplankton. Nature Microbiology 4: 430-439.

Wang J et al., (2024). Alternative dimethylsulfoniopropionate biosynthesis enzymes in diverse and abundant microorganisms. Nature Microbiology 9:1979-1992.