We focus on the discovery, engineering, and applications of useful bacterial enzymes.

One area of interest is the use of nitroreductase enzymes to activate useful compounds for anti-cancer gene therapy.

We also study non-ribosomal peptide synthetases and phosphopantetheinyl transferases that play key roles in the synthesis of a range of bioactive products. We have developed a variety of methods to screen for these enzymes and to improve their activity by targeted mutagenesis and directed evolution.

Prospective students

If you are interested in postgraduate study with us, please contact David Ackerley below.