Protein engineering of protein switches for development of diagnostics tools
Sensitive and specific detection of serum antibodies is often used to diagnose infections. This project aims to develop a simple qualitative/quantitative device for detection of antibodies of interest. It will involve protein engineering of protein switches to incorporate antigens while attached to biomolecular scaffolds. Binding of the antibodies to the antigens will activate the protein switch which will result in release of a signal. The project combines advanced protein engineering with materials science and biotechnology.
Primary supervisor: Prof Bernd Rehm
Other supervisor: N/A
To apply: Contact Prof Bernd Rehm with your CV at b.rehm@griffith.edu.au
Precision-engineering of core-shell structures for prevention and treatment of diseases
This project harnesses the biosynthesis capacity of microbial cells to produce polymeric self-assemblies that can be engineered to incorporate protein functions such as antigen, binding domains and enzymes. This approach uses metabolic engineering and protein engineering to exploit the vast biomaterials design space for generation of innovative smart materials that form core-shell structures and exhibit advantageous properties toward such as uses as antigen carrier in vaccine applications or for targeted delivery of active compounds.
Primary supervisor: Prof Bernd Rehm
Other supervisor: N/A
To apply: Contact Prof Bernd Rehm with your CV at b.rehm@griffith.edu.au