Name and Surname: Rodrigo Ledesma-Amaro
Organization: Imperial College London (UK)
Major Fields of Research/Activity: Synthetic Biology and Metabolic Engineering
- What is your role in the YAF project? What are you currently working on within the scope of YAF?
I am the supervisor of Laura de Freitas and Nicolas Fink at Imperial College London. We apply synthetic biology and metabolic engineering 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 innovative field, challenging yet crucial for the sustainability of the fuel sector. This multidisciplinary consortium will contribute to the development of new knowledge in this field and serve as the basis for the development of new technologies.
- What or who inspired you to go into academia/research?
I have always enjoyed solving problems and creativity. While at University, I realised research is a great combination of both that allows us to have a positive impact on the world. Those elements of research inspired me to become a researcher myself.
- For you, what is most challenging and/or exciting about your work in YAF?
I think the most challenging is to break the unit economics of producing sustainable fuels at scale. The most exciting is the impact we can have if we are successful!
- Write an inspiring quote for the DC you are going to supervise in YAF.
In this project you are rewriting the future of flight. Let your research be the fuel that lifts both science and sustainability.
- Where can we find you after work? Doing what?
I like to spend time with family and friends. I also like travelling and discovering new places and cultures around the world. I also like climbing, snowboarding, videogames, and hiking, among many other things.
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