Engineering new biocatalysts: optimising new protein scaffolds by rational design

THE GROUP

The Biotransformation and Bioactive Molecules group works at the intersection of chemistry and biology, using a mix of computer modelling, chemical synthesis, molecular biology, and cell biology.

Our research group integrates chemistry, biology, and structural analysis to understand and engineer biocatalysts. We focus on: i) Biocatalyst development and optimization –creating and optimizing natural and artificial enzymes for carbon-carbon and carbon-heteroatom bond formation, ii) Structural and dynamic analysis – reveling mechanisms of action and molecular recognition of biocatalysts and other functional proteins, iii) Protein evolution and design –using evolutionary principles to uncover the molecular basis of the origin of life, and to guide the design of new, efficient biocatalysts. This multidisciplinary approach enables us to connect fundamental understanding with practical enzyme innovation.

THE INSTITUTE

IQAC-CSIC, located in Barcelona, is part of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC). With a long-standing tradition dating back to 1967 and independent status since 2007, IQAC-CSIC is committed to excellence-driven research in Chemical Sciences, aiming at improving quality of life, focusing on human health, sustainable processes and chemical products, and the development of new materials. This goal is pursued through a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together experts in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Biology, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, and Chemical Engineering, providing the institute with a broad spectrum of research lines and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

A well-rounded approach to chemical and biological research supports excellence in synthetic chemistry and (bio)molecular engineering with advanced laboratories, cell culture units, an animal facility, an insectary, and computational resources. IQAC-CSIC also stands out in knowledge transfer, with a strong patent output and industry ties, which facilitate the transfer of innovations between the laboratory and society.