Join our biotechnology webinar series to see how EBIC applies engineering biology to address pressing environmental challenges. Bringing together leading experts to explore real-world solutions for a healthier planet – don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation driving environmental change!
Webinar 1 – Microbial Engineering: Toolsets & Genetic Engineering Methods
November 14 2025 13:30 – 14:30 (GMT)
Our first session – Microbial Engineering: Tools & Genetic Modification Techniques – will feature our EBIC experts Dr. David Lea-Smith, Associate Professor of Microbiology at the University of East Anglia, and Kawinharsun Dhodduraj, Researcher at Cranfield University.
With them, we will review cutting-edge tools and tactics for microbial genetic modification, including practical insights and real-world examples. The webinar will also be an opportunity for attendees to explore broader applications and significance of microbial engineering from a researcher’s perspective, and to engage directly with our experts via our live chat.
Join us on November 14, 2025, from 13:30 to 14:30 (GMT) as we explore the latest tools, techniques, and insights driving innovation in engineering biology.
Our Speakers
- Dr Lea‑Smith leads cutting‑edge work developing synthetic biology toolsets and genetic engineering methods for a wide range of bacteria, including cyanobacteria, applied to carbon capture, compound production and biotechnological innovation.
- He has pioneered systems such as modular Golden Gate cloning in cyanobacteria, and engineered bacteria for bioremediation and synthetic production.
- This webinar offers the chance to hear from a practitioner at the interface of microbial cell biology, engineering and biotechnology—bringing tools and methods to life.
- Kawinharsun Dhodduraj interest lies within using Metabolic Engineering tools for enhancing the production of platform chemicals.
- His current research work focuses on the production of 2,3-butanediol using various organic waste streams rich in fermentable sugars. This involves developing optimal pretreatment strategies, optimizing the production pathway through metabolic engineering and process intensification. His research emphasizes utilizing renewable carbon sources and developing low-carbon manufacturing technologies, aligning with multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
- Kawinharsun will also focus on the applications & impact of microbial engineering in his research field.
What You’ll Learn
- Overview of state‑of‑the‑art toolsets for microbial genetic engineering
- Strategies for engineering bacteria
- Practical considerations
- Real-world examples from Dr Lea-Smith’s lab & work within EBIC
- Applications & impact of microbial engineering from the perspective of a researcher
- Q&A Session – ask questions and engage with our researchers on the topic. Please also feel free to submit questions before the webinar here
Who Should Attend
Microbiologists, synthetic biologists, biotechnologists, graduate students, R&D professionals interested in microbial engineering & anyone else with an interest in engineering biology applications!
