Post by Rafiif I.

Yesterday, I presented my research poster titled "Metabolic Engineering of Y. lipolytica for Sustainable Ceramide Production." It has been an invaluable experience working on this 3-month research project as part of my MSc at UCL Biochemical Engineering / UCL. Presenting the results in a short "elevator pitch" was both challenging and rewarding, as I received insightful comments and feedback from academics and industrialists alike. My project aimed to develop a Y. lipolytica strain as an alternative production host for phytosphingosine, an important precursor to a moisturising ingredient in cosmetic products called ceramides. I employed a range of molecular biology techniques, including molecular cloning, Golden Gate assembly, and genetic transformation, as well as bacteria and yeast cultivation. Special thanks to my supervisor, Dr. Leonardo Rios Solis, for his support and feedback throughout this project. I am also grateful to Natalie Choi for her invaluable guidance and mentorship in the lab. Moving forward, I am excited to explore more opportunities in the field of biotechnology, combining my molecular biology skills with process engineering know-how to develop processes for biopharmaceutical manufacturing. If my expertise aligns with your work, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’d be happy to discuss potential opportunities and how I could contribute. #biochemicalengineering #biotechnology #metabolicengineering #syntheticbiology #molecularbiology #biopharmaceuticals #UCL