Dr Matthew Jenner awarded BBSRC Future Leader Fellowship
Congratulations to Dr Matthew Jenner, Leverhulme Early Career Research Fellow in the Department of Chemistry, who has been awarded a BBSRC Future Leader Fellowship.
The Fellowship will further Dr Jenner’s research entitled, ‘Mapping Protein-Protein Interactions in Modular Polyketide Synthases by Carbene Footprinting’ in addition to supporting his development in independent research and leadership skills.
On accepting the award Dr Jenner said, “I feel truly honoured and grateful to receive this prestigious fellowship from the BBSRC. The award will allow me to pursue an independent line of research, providing a platform for the development of my future academic career.
"I would like to thank everyone in the Department of Chemistry who supported and helped progress my application. I look forward to the scientific challenges ahead, and forming productive collaborations across the University.”
Dr Jenner’s research focusses on applying state-of-the-art mass spectrometry and structural biology techniques to investigate the function of modular polyketide synthase (PKS) multi-enzymes at the molecular level. These remarkable molecular machines, often likened to assembly lines, are responsible for the production of structurally complex natural products, several of which have important applications in medicine and agriculture.
His work aims to deliver an in-depth understanding of the protein-protein interactions governing the catalytic function of modular PKSs. Such understanding is required to improve our ability to rationally engineer these enzymes to make novel natural products with improved bioactive properties.
The research proposal was assessed by the BBSRC’s Research Committee and demonstrated high potential in addition to his excellent personal track record and future plans.
As part of Dr Jenner’s application, Warwick’s research environment was assessed by the BBSRC to be supportive and the best place for Dr Jenner to carry out his research project and to advance his career.