Dr Maria Makarova

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Department of Metabolism and Systems Science, University of Birmingham

Scientific Background

Research Interests

I’m interested in uncovering how cells allocate resources and preserve metabolic balance. To address this, we ask how cells regulate the distribution of metabolic flux across pathways under diverse environmental and genetic conditions. Using yeast as a model, our research has revealed fundamental principles of metabolic organization, adaptation, and resilience, offering insights into how evolution shapes and constrains cellular metabolism.

Building on these insights, we are now focusing on the metabolic engineering of Schizosaccharomyces japonicus. Instead of adding entirely new synthetic pathways, we build on its natural evolutionary adaptations, especially its ability to tolerate the toxicity of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs). By enhancing and redirecting its existing metabolism, we aim to improve sustainable MCFA production. This strategy connects evolutionary biology with synthetic design, turning a naturally robust yeast into a promising platform for green biomanufacturing.

Research Groups

Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR)

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: supportive, guiding, teaching and inclusive.

Provision of Training

I prefer to take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later.

Progression Monitoring and Management

I will set out my expectations of your progression on a weekly/monthly basis. If these progression criteria are not met we will always discuss a plan of action together.

Communication

I am known to email my team/PhD students at all hours of the day and night, however I will not expect you to do the same.

Meetings

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me at least once per week. These meetings will be face-to-face. I am usually contactable for an instant response on every working day.

Working Patterns

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings), I expect students to manage their own time.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 1 week's notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Primary supervisor for:

Engineering Microbial Cell Factories for Sustainable Production of Medium-Chain Fatty Acids (MCFAs)

See the PhD Opportunities section to see if this project is currently open for applications via MIBTP.

Please Note: The main page lists projects via BBSRC Research Theme(s) quoted and then relevant Topic(s).

Engineering Microbial Cell Factories for Sustainable Production of Medium-Chain Fatty Acids (MCFAs)

Secondary Supervisor(s): Professor Dylan Owen

University of Registration: University of Birmingham

BBSRC Research Themes:

Renewable Resources and Clean Growth (Bio-energy,Industrial Biotechnology)

Project Outline

Sustainable manufacturing requires sourcing biomolecules from renewable resources rather than finite petrochemicals or ecologically damaging crops. Medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) are high-value compounds used in biofuels, food additives, surfactants, lubricants, antimicrobials, and herbicides. The global MCFA market, valued at USD 1.45 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 2.23 billion by 2033, reflecting increasing industrial demand and the need for sustainable production strategies.

Microbial synthesis is a promising alternative, but conventional hosts struggle to achieve competitive yields because they are not evolutionarily adapted to high-level MCFA production or tolerance. We recently identified Schizosaccharomyces japonicus, a unique yeast that naturally produces and withstands high MCFA concentrations as part of its adaptation to anaerobic environments. This PhD project aims to develop S. japonicus into a next-generation biotechnology platform using a combination of metabolic engineering, proteomics, and laboratory evolution.

You will investigate the genetic, proteomic, and biochemical mechanisms of MCFA synthesis, degradation, and trafficking, using techniques such as CRISPR-based genome editing, lipidomics, quantitative proteomics, microscopy, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and adaptive laboratory evolution. Integrated multi-omics analyses (transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and lipidomics) will guide rational strain engineering to enhance MCFA yields and streamline extraction strategies.

This interdisciplinary project provides advanced training in molecular biology, systems biology, and biotechnology, preparing you for careers in academic or industrial research. By exploiting S. japonicus’ unique adaptations, this work aims to create sustainable microbial “cell factories” capable of replacing petroleum-based production routes, addressing urgent environmental and economic challenges.

APPLY HERE