Two promising UG researchers to top institutes abroad on Rubicon grants

Two promising PhD graduates from the University of Groningen will be able to conduct research at top institutes abroad for two years thanks to the Rubicon programme organized by the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO). The NWO Rubicon programme enables talented, young researchers to acquire international research experience to help kick-start their academic careers.

Read below who the laureates are with a brief description of their research projects, and where they will conduct their research over the next two years.

• M. Kokkorakis BSc -> University of Groningen -> United States -> Yale School of Medicine -> 24 months

Bridging the chasm between animal studies and human clinical trials through humanized liver models.

Current animal models inadequately represent human liver disease due to immune and lipid profile differences. This project employs advanced mouse models with human-like livers to study specific lipids disrupting immune function and causing liver damage. Insights from these lipids can bridge gaps between animal research and clinical trials of alcohol- and metabolism-related liver diseases.

• K. Zhong, MSc. -> University of Groningen in the Netherlands -> United States -> Harvard Medical School -> 24 months

Customization of enzyme one-dimensional properties to three-dimensional structure through artificial intelligence

Current enzyme engineering faces significant challenges in designing efficient and customized biocatalysts. This project integrates AI with two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy to decode dynamic 3D protein structures, enabling the rapid and precise design of non-natural enzymes. The approach supports applications in sustainable manufacturing, carbon capture, and drug development, driving advances in green chemistry.