Seminar-Development and application of genetic tools in non-model microbes

Genetic modification or microorganisms is a critical approach for understanding gene function and engineering new functions, with applications ranging from fundamental science, to medical research, to bioengineering. While robust genetic tools exist for model microbes such as Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, tools are often under-developed or completely lacking in non-model microbes. Here, I will describe our approach to developing genetic transformation methods for diverse bacteria, as well as the development of simple and efficient methods for inserting DNA into the target organism’s chromosome. Finally, I will present applications of these tools in the engineering of non-model bacteria to produce fuels and chemicals from renewable feedstocks.

Sponsored by:

The Department of Microbiology and Immunology