Ian Eggington
PhD Student
Hi, My name is Ian.
I am a part-time PhD Student in the Horsfall Group. I did my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science at the University of Aberdeen, and went on to do a Masters at the University of Edinburgh in Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology. I am now working on an EPSRC-funded project to develop ways of Biologically Upcycling Metals . In my spare time I enjoy DIY projects at home, spending time with my family and indulging in the odd video game or two. I am still in the early stages of my PhD, but I am excited by the prospect of continuing to work in the academic field, continuing my studies as a post-doctoral researcher once I graduate.
Public Abstract
My contribution to the Bi-Up project is developing the genetic manipulation tool known as CRISPR for use on the non-standard strains of bacteria used within the Horsfall Group. Once the tool is adapted for use I will be applying it to edit the DNA of our bacteria to adapt the organisms for greater specificity and efficiency for the removal and recovery of rare and valuable elements from waste streams.
Scientific Abstract
I am adapting CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPR/dCas9 for use in Desulfovibrio alaskensis as a method of genetic manipulation and control of gene expression. The use of a dCas9-omega subunit fusion protein allows for upregulation of genes as well as silencing, while the Cas9 can be used for producing genetic knockouts and perform genetic modifications. The targets for these knockouts will be genes observed to be involved in the production of nanoparticles of platinum group metals or rare earth elements. This will greatly enhance our knowledge of the underlying biology behind these pathways, whilst also allowing us greater control over the production of nanoparticles. I am also working on developing other genetic tools for Desulfovibrio sp., to enhance its use more broadly as a chassis for bioremediation.