A Systems Biology Approach to the Optimisation of (Fed-) Batch and Continuous Fermentation Processes for Recombinant Protein Production

The purpose of this feasibility project is to create a deep systems biology level understanding of the stresses placed upon an organism, under a range of (fed-)batch and continuous fermentation conditions required for the large scale and high titre manufacture of biocatalysts, through the use of the complex analytical techniques of metabolomics and proteomics. The project seeks to understand how variation in the genetic constructs and process conditions used to direct protein production can affect the organism and how these effects might be mitigated against, minimised and controlled by further re-design of the genetic components, feed medium and process conditions. The development of robust fermentation processes has economic advantages, through both cycle time reduction and raw material efficiencies and will have clear impact beyond this feasibility study through the reliable and more economic commercial supply of enzymes to Industrial Biotechnology using industries.