Áron Karancsi
University
Aarhus University (AU)
Company
Novo Nordisk A/S
Project title
Insulin purification enzymatic synthesis: Investigation of reaction kinetics
Project description
In the protease based enzymatic synthesis involved in insulin production, two by-products are observed in the outgoing material sent downstream for additional purification, which lowers the overall yield of the process. A lower yield means both an increased unit cost as well as a higher environmental impact as more raw materials must be consumed. Moreover, the inter-mediate used for this insulin is in high demand meaning that improving the yield is desirable from the company perspective. To decrease formation of by-products, better understanding of the impact of process conditions such as pH, temperature, reaction time and composition is desired. Thus, in this project, reaction kinetics of the protease based enzymatic synthesis under various process conditions will be investigated to obtain a process with higher yield and im-proved product specificity, which will be key in increasing efficiency and sustainability of the process.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
Two years ago I was researching master’s degrees in Denmark, and I saw that Aarhus University had a news article about their collaboration with Helix Lab. This was really a small consideration back then, but when I started, I wanted to find interesting collaborations between academia and industry where projects focus on real world impact and potential benefits to society at large. The fellowship program’s apparent commitment to community building and development also really reassured me before jumping into this adventure. One could say that I came full circle with applying!
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
It has to be the unique combination of being challenged both scientifically and in terms of general project/collaboration skills. For the former, I need to be a bit more independent with the academic part, but I also feel assured that I have all the help I need and great facilities at the laboratory. As for the project part, I know I will need to work with many stakeholders and think outside the box to get the most out of my work. These two aspects make for an exceptional environment to learn so much!
What perspectives do you see for your future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
Next year I will have to face the task of starting my career. For this, I hope I will have the help of the strong community here and the professional development I plan to go through during my project. My time here already helped me decide that I want to stay at one of the amazing biotechnology companies present in Kalundborg. I imagine my perspective will change a lot by then, but I always want to keep challenging myself, probably trying out different professional areas within biotech. I am sure that I will be able to use everything I learn at the Helix Lab to contribute in my own way to the future of biotechnology.