Genome editing in bacteria often requires intricate and time-consuming protocols, posing significant challenges, especially for non-model species. As a result, research has largely been confined to well-studied bacteria such as E. coli, B. subtilis, and S. aureus. This PhD project aims to develop a novel genome editing approach that eliminates the need for introducing and maintaining plasmid DNA within bacterial cells. Moreover, this method does not rely on the expression of RNAs or proteins for the editing process. This technique will allow us to edit the genomes of bacteria that are typically difficult to transform, either in isolation or within complex microbial communities. The development of this method will result in broadening the range of bacteria we can engineer, will accelerate and simplify the transformation process, and will give access to myriads of potential industrial and clinical applications.
Supervisor: Dr. Constantinos Patinios
Contacts:
Phone: +370 690 40 102 / +370 5 239 8221
Programme: Biotechnology