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To foster the education of the next generation of scientists in biocatalysis, we piloted a 5 day Biocatalysis 101 Workshop in May 2024 at the University of Michigan. The workshop was led by five C-CES trainees who developed a hands-on, interactive curriculum focusing on essential biocatalysis techniques and methodologies.
In inaugural Biocatalysis 101 Workshop hosted 14 participating students from 6 different universities.
Allie Golliher, Host
(University of Michigan)
“Being one of the hosts of the C-CES Biocatalysis Workshop was an incredible experience that empowered the next generation of chemists with practical skills in chemoenzymatic synthesis. Welcoming students from research groups across the country fostered a dynamic exchange of techniques and strategies, where we learned from each other’s approaches to overcoming challenges in the field. This collaborative environment reinforced our shared mission of advancing chemoenzymatic synthesis as a broadly beneficial discipline.” - Allie
The students each presented their research projects, allowing them to receive constructive feedback from their peers. Sharing diverse research topics encouraged interdisciplinary dialogue, fostering an atmosphere of networking that helped students build connections and form new collaborations.
Maria Guerrero, Participant
(Yale University)
“Before attending the biocatalysis workshop, I had no experience with biocatalytic reactions and what the workflow consisted of. However, during the week-long experience I was able to learn and experience the process first-hand. It was very beneficial to be able to have hands-on experience with cells, protein expression, preparative-scale biocatalytic reactions. I also appreciated the scientific discussions that I had with other participants of the workshop, which allowed me to learn a multitude of topics more in depth.” - Maria
Throughout the workshop, participants gained valuable experience in several key areas:
Bioinformatics
Directed evolution
High-throughput screening
Protein engineering
Preparative-scale reactions
These topics were presented through a combination of laboratory exercises and interactive teaching sessions that allowed students to directly apply the concepts and techniques learned.
Inaugural Biocatalysis 101 Workshop metrics. Attendees self-rated their knowledge in each area 1-5, where 1 = novice and 5 = expert.
Matthew McGill, Participant
(Northwestern University)
“The workshop offered valuable opportunities to network with peers from labs nationwide and to learn about their innovative projects in biocatalysis. Lab techniques like high-throughput reaction setups and biocatalytic scale-ups were exciting to learn about in respect to applications for organic synthesis. Additionally, bioinformatics techniques proved informative for thinking about catalyst selection for reaction development.” - Matthew
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