We would like to congratulate Dr Di Xueni, Post-doctoral Research Fellow under the supervision of Professor Liao Pan at the Department of Biology of HKBU Faculty of Science, for being awarded over HK$2.6 million from the JC STEM Early Career Research Fellowship for Translation and Application (2024/25) by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust.
Dr Di has been advancing sustainable biotechnology through metabolic engineering, with her enzyme engineering research holding potential for revolutionising sustainable isoprenoid (a group of natural compounds) production. Her awarded project “Enhancing Isoprenoid Production in Microbial Biofactories” enhances the isoprenoid production, which is critical for pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and agrifood. By engineering a key metabolic pathway (MEP) via directed evolution and overcoming natural feedback mechanisms, Dr Di’s research opens new possibilities for cost-effective and environmentally friendly production methods, meeting the growing demand for these valuable compounds.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust launched the Fellowship in 2024. It aims to promote industrial innovation development in Hong Kong and to support its development as an international innovation and technology hub. The Fellowship aims to nurture STEM researchers by providing them with comprehensive support and unique opportunities to develop their research and innovation careers, expand their professional networks, and create social impact.
Explore more details about the Fellowship.
