Dr Glyn Hemsworth

Profile

I studied at the University of Sheffield to obtain first a BSc in Biochemistry followed by a PhD in Structural Biology. I then moved to the University of York where I spent 6 and a half years as a postdoctoral researcher, before moving to the University of Leeds in 2016 as a University Academic Fellow and a BBSRC David Phillips Fellow. I primarily use X-ray crystallography and biochemical techniques to gain molecular insight into how proteins function. 

My focus thus far has largely been on enzymes – proteins which catalyse many of the reactions that sustain life. I have studied enzymes involved in DNA replication, nucleotide homeostasis, nutrient acquisition from food and is currently studying proteins that may play a role in the degradation of biomass with a view to using them for generating more sustainable biofuels for the future.

Research interests

Research in our lab is focussed on the discovery and characterisation of new proteins with potential biotechnological applications. Combining structural, biochemical and biophysical methods we aim to gain a molecular level understanding of enzymatic function. Current research is centred on the characterisation of a range of proteins as potential activators of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs), which have emerged as key players in biomass degradation. For more detail please see my page on the Astbruy Centre website.

<h4>Research projects</h4> <p>Any research projects I'm currently working on will be listed below. Our list of all <a href="https://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/dir/research-projects">research projects</a> allows you to view and search the full list of projects in the faculty.</p>

Qualifications

  • BSc Biochemsitry
  • PhD Structural Biology

Research groups and institutes

  • Structural Biology
  • Biotechnology
<h4>Postgraduate research opportunities</h4> <p>We welcome enquiries from motivated and qualified applicants from all around the world who are interested in PhD study. Our <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk">research opportunities</a> allow you to search for projects and scholarships.</p>