Rasmus Gundersen
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 intermediate 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 desire. Thus, in this project reaction kinetics of the protease based enzymatic synthesis under various process conditions will be investigated in order to obtain a process with higher yield and improved product specificity, which will be key in increasing efficiency and sustainability of the process.
What was your motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow?
My main motivation for becoming a Helix Lab Fellow was to make a connection with the industry. I heard that Helix Lab has a strong connection with the surrounding industry in Kalundborg and I thought it would be the perfect first step, for my upcoming career. The projects are also highly relevant for the different industries, meaning our theoretical knowledge from university, can be used in a real-life situation, where we can see an actual impact of our results. I saw that as an exciting opportunity to test my knowledge and see how my education can help the industry.
What is the most exciting part of being a Helix Lab Fellow?
The most existing part of being a Fellow, is being a part of the daily life at Novo Nordisk. I’m joining team meetings, talking to team members about their project and just getting a feeling for how it’s like to work, as an engineer, in one of Denmark’s biggest companies. It’s also exciting to hear about all the other Fellows project and how it is to work in their companies.
What perspectives do you see for you future after being a Helix Lab Fellow?
I already feel like I have gotten a strong network here in Kalundborg, both personally and professionally. By moving to Kalundborg through the Helix Lab Fellow program, I’m getting to be with other students, who are in the same situation as me. This creates a strong bond between us and friendships we can keep after the fellowship are over. I have also created many connections within the industry and the staff of Helix Lab are happy to help us with the process of getting our first job. So, I have only positive perspectives for my future after being a Helix Lab Fellow.