Name and Surname: Francesca Ceroni
Organization: Imperial College London (UK)
Major Fields of Research/Activity: Cell Engineering, Engineering Biology
- What is your role in the YAF project? What are you currently working on within the scope of YAF?
I am the co-supervisor of Laura de Freitas and Nicolas Fink at Imperial College London. We apply synthetic biology and metabolic engineering approaches to develop yeast factories to produce terpenes and lipids for the synthesis of Sustainable Aviation Fuels.
- Why do you think the YAF research is important for your career development and how it will impact the society?
YAF is an exciting research area where we can put into use the principles of engineering biology to work toward a more sustainable fuel sector. It is great to work along so many other researchers and experts across Europe and build up a comprehensive approach to YAF and their exploitation.
- What or who inspired you to go into academia/research?
YAF is an exciting research area where we can put into use the principles of engineering biology to work toward a more sustainable fuel sector. It is great to work along so many other researchers and experts across Europe and build up a comprehensive approach to YAF and their exploitation.
- For you, what is most challenging and/or exciting about your work in YAF?
The biggest challenge I see is the understanding of the biological complexity of the living systems we are working with. Cells are powerful and resourceful, and it is not easy to really grasp the biology that happens when we engineer them. But we need to if we want to predictably and reliably engineer them. I am excited to have the opportunity to investigate yeast factories and use them to change the future of fuels.
- Write an inspiring quote for the DC you are going to supervise in YAF.
Enjoy your project as much as possible, have fun and don`t lose sight of the important values in life. This will help you succeed in your research and contribute to advancing science and its real-world impact in the future.
- Where can we find you after work? Doing what?
I have a family and two kids, so I spend as much time as possible with them, playing board games, doing sports, going on holiday together and living life outside the lab!
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