Mutant Chronicles: Mutagenesis and Protein Optimization of LigAB Mutants

Abstract

opportunity to explore the wonderful world of scientific research, despite not knowing that I was a 'troubled child.' The past three years of research has not only taught me about enzymology and biofuels, but more importantly it has helped me discover myself in the most unexpected ways. Thank you for 'science', your constant guidance, patience and support, the shared tears and laughter, the life lessons and above all for believing in me. I would also like to thank grad student Kevin for being such a tremendous help in the past, especially in the conception of this thesis. Not forgetting Dan and my lab mates, past and present, without whom this learning experience would not have been complete. To my housemates, thank you Chi for the spontaneous fun; Bert for the walks and talks; Francis for his onomatopoeic care; Gavin for the good times running around the house; and Nathan for being there. I would also like to thank 'the kids'-Jeff, Paul, Daniel, Angela and Shirley for adding colors to life. Hanshien, Jerusha, Linda and Shipra, thank you for keeping me sane and helping me put things in perspective, despite being across time and space. A bulk of research done for this thesis would not have been possible without the generosity of the Rauch family and the College of Environment. Thank you for supporting me for the past two summers. Special thanks to Professor Elphick and Professor Hadler, who despite not being involved in the creation of this thesis have been a constant support to me throughout the years. I am indebted to the late Mr Houghton 'Buck' Freeman '43, whose radical generosity and passion continually inspires me. On multiple levels, this thesis would not have been at all possible without you. 'Thank you Mr. Freeman, your scholars proud we be.' Dad, Mum, Abigail and Aaron, thank you for your love, prayers and support. I would not have come this far without you. Above all I would like to thank the Creator for orchestrating every beautifully.