Research

My research explores how enzymes can be repurposed and redesigned to catalyse non-natural reactions. I focus on building hybrid catalysts that combine synthetic cofactors, such as organic dyes and flavins with novel protein scaffolds. These systems mimic the reactivity of small-molecule catalysts while harnessing the specificity and tunability of biological macromolecules.

This work sits at the interface of protein engineering, photocatalysis, and synthetic chemistry. I use tools like spectroscopy, molecular dynamics, docking, and structure-guided design to better understand how proteins can control redox activity, electron transfer, and light-driven processes.

Currently, as part of my PhD in the Polysoz Group, under A/Prof Anastasios Polyzos and Prof Colin Scott I’m developing modular protein–catalyst hybrids that mimic small molecule photocatalysts while leveraging the specificity and adaptability of enzymes.