Prabhakar Srivastava (ECR Rep)
“It is our utmost priority to preserve the nature for future generations.”
I am a Research Fellow at the Centre for Environmental Biotechnology (CEB) in the School of Environmental & Natural Sciences, Bangor University and an ECR representative in the EBIC project. My present role in EBIC focuses on the various aspects of engineering microorganisms, including but not limiting to enzyme discovery, enzyme engineering and genetic manipulation of selected strains to degrade recalcitrant organic pollutants as part of Theme 2. In addition to this, I am also involved in Theme 3 on identifying and engineering enzymes for the “Biorecovery of metals, rare earth elements from metal-contaminated wastes and by-products”. Addressing environmental issues such as degradation of organic pollutants and wastewater treatment is of utmost priority. Pollutants are causing severe damage to the environment and society, while also causing extensive harm to the marine ecosystem. EBIC brings together experts and early career researchers from diverse fields providing a unique platform to tackle these issues using tools like synthetic biology, genetic manipulation, and enzyme engineering. This project relies on combining cutting-edge genome technologies with synthetic biology for the bioremediation of recalcitrant organic pollutant.
I am excited to be part of this truly pioneering project designed to address these imperative issues for creating a healthier environment. This project also provides exceptional opportunities with the inclusion of development workshops like grant writing, project management, career planning, networking, annual conferences, and mentorship programmes for the development of Early Career Researchers (ECRs). Being an ECR Representative gives me a unique platform to identify the vast array of opportunities for professional development of all ECRs, navigate any concerns and create an open and inclusive environment for all to share their views and aspirations.
I am confident that this collaborative project, well-equipped with inter-disciplinary research, will deliver solutions to some of the challenging problems society is facing today and help to conserve our environment. The encompassing training and knowledge exchange activities planned will enable and empower the next generation of researchers (ECRs) for excellence in both academia and industry.
