Here is a summary of our current research. See publications for a full list of outputs.

Biocatalysis

Enzymes perform the chemistry of the natural world. In recent times, they have seen increasing application in synthetic chemistry. In the Cosgrove group, we are interested in finding, engineering and applying biocatalysts to novel problems in synthetic chemistry. Some of the enzymes we are currently investigating include oxidases, nitroreductase and carbohydrate-active enzymes.

Continuous flow

Our group is interested in how we can use new processing tools to improve biocatalysts activity, stability and performance. Continuous flow plays an important role in our group, in conjunction with enzyme immobilisation as a key complementary tool. Using biocatalysts in an immobilised form creates recoverable, heterogenous catalysts, which can be used in different ways to their soluble counterparts. We are investigating several immobilisation strategies with industrial partners, including ongoing projects with EnginZyme.

Bioprocess optimisation

We are interested in full (bio)process optimisation to help enable adoption of biocatalysis within industrial settings. By focussing on process design as well as reaction optimisation, our team aims to be able to produce process-ready biocatalytic routes towards important molecules. We are currently working on projects with several industrial partners towards understanding how biocatalysis and continuous processing can be used to improve industrial chemical production.