Bacteriophage-based genome refactoring: a novel pipeline to optimize microbial fermentations

Bacterial viruses have evolved to modify, adapt and control their bacterial hosts through billions of years of interactions. Consistent with the aims of modern synthetic biologists aspire, bacteriophages are capable of silencing xenogeneic DNA, modulate host gene expression, and co-opt the bacterial metabolism in a variety of ways. Within this PhD, we aim to exploit the potential of bacteriophages to construct genetic circuits as synthetic biology parts in non-model bacteria. Integrating phage-based genetic circuits into these bacterial strains will enable us to develop new applications in industrial fermentations as well as new approaches for the field of biomedical sciences. In this manner, the project combines fundamental biotechnological insights with application-oriented research that addresses key problems for society and industry.