Biohybrid Sandpit Workshop

The Biohybrid Sandpit Workshop will be held on 4th July at the University of East Anglia and hosted by Professor Julea Butt (University of East Anglia) and Dr Jenny Zhang (University of Cambridge). ​

​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCOPE OF THE MEETING:

Biohybrid approaches to solar chemicals production couple synthetic and biological materials to absorb solar energy and convert the excited state to separated charges that are transported to sites of redox catalysis. The biological component can be a protein, enzyme, sub-cellular organelle or complete living system. When compared to photoelectrochemical and photovoltaic devices coupled to electrolysers, several advantages for biohybrid approaches can be identified. For example, N2 can be reduced to NH3/NH4+ with reasonable yields and there are opportunities to produce highly complex carbon products, often using CO2 without the need for external capture/concentration. However, challenges include channeling product formation along a single pathway, longevity of biological components and limited utilization of the solar spectrum.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

This Workshop invites researchers from diverse research areas to brainstorm how biohybrid approaches to solar chemicals production may be advanced. Researchers of all backgrounds are welcome - particularly those working in microbiology, engineering, biocatalysis, materials science, electrochemistry, chemistry, physics and similar. A background in biohybrids is not needed. Participation of PhD students, post-doctoral researchers, research fellows and group-leaders from academia and industry is encouraged. Funding has been ring-fenced (£3,000 maximum) for new collaborative projects resulting from this Workshop. 

​

MEETING FORMAT:

​During the morning, discussions will be structured around the following themes:

​

·        Tailoring materials for biohybrid photo-to-chemical conversion

·        Tailoring biology for biohybrids photo-to-chemical conversion

·        Characterisation of the biotic|abiotic interface

​

Keynote Speakers will review the state-of-the-art. Group leaders and postdocs will have the opportunity to introduce themselves and give 2-minute introductory flash talks. 

​

During the afternoon, participants will work in groups to identify and prioritize possible projects within each theme. The process for applying for ring-fenced SCN funding will be explained.

​

Keynote Speakers:

Dr. Peter Adams (University of Leeds)

Prof. Ross Anderson (University of Bristol)

​Professor Petra Cameron (University of Bath)

Prof. Luning Liu (University of Liverpool)

Prof. Kylie Vincent (University of Oxford)

​

REGISTER HERE

A small registration fee of £20 is set to encourage PhD students and PDRAs to participate. The £20 includes a lunch and coffee at breaks.