Investigating the use of marine thraustochytrids for biofuel production

Background and rationale

Marine Thraustochytrids are an ecologically important and diverse group of microbial protists that are saprophytes and occasionally parasites. They are also of significant interest to biotechnologists because some species produce large quantities of lipids, which can include the nutritionally important omega-3 and -6 fatty acids. Moreover, their ecology suggests that they may be an important source of cell (e.g. seaweed) degrading enzymes. Collectively, it is feasible to hypothesise that Thraustochytrids could be utilised for the production of biofuels, where, for example, they could be grown on waste biomass such as farmed seaweed to produce valuable lipids that may be utilised as biofuel or enzyme cocktails to release sugars from seaweeds for bioethanol. This programme of study seeks to investigate multiple novel marine thraustochytrids with the aim to identify and exploit one or more of these strains to produce products of value to the production of biofuels.

Research methods

The project will employ a diverse set of research methods including, cultivation and optimisation of Thraustochytrid growth; biochemical analysis of macronutrients; metabolomic analysis of lipids and other metabolites; protein/enzyme extraction and analysis of cell wall-degrading enzyme activity; DNA isolation, purification and whole genome sequencing and bioinformatic analysis; and phylogenetic analysis.

Deliverables and Impact

The programme aims to identify the growth characteristics of novel thraustochytrids; their cell wall degradative capacity; identify the classes and quantities of lipid produced; begin investigation of the genomics of these thraustochytrids. The impact of this work will be to establish the value of marine thraustochytrids as a resource to sustainably meet global energy demands.

Skills, experience and interests

The candidate should possess a strong intellectual curiosity matched by a strong enjoyment of laboratory-based research. Ideally, the candidate should have a strong degree based round biology, biochemistry, microbiology or molecular biology. The candidate should be able to demonstrate knowledge and experience with laboratory cultivation of microorganisms; biochemistry and/or experience with enzyme assays; experience with isolation of DNA, polymerase chain reaction and experience or knowledge of various types of bioinformatics.

Deadline for Applications: Tuesday 28th February 2023 (17:00)

For further information

Please contact Dr David Green for further information about the project (David.Green@sams.ac.uk) Deadline for Applications: Tuesday 28th February 2023 (17:00)
(see ‘How to Apply’ tab for details)
Interview date: Monday 20^th March 2023
Studentship starts: on or before 5th June 2023