A bio-friendly green approach to enhancing enzyme performance

In this ongoing project, students will explore the use of deep eutectic solvents (DES) to enhance the conversion of polysaccharides into sugars.  The long-term goal is efficient room-temperature enzymatic conversion, in contrast to current high-temperature processes.  This interdisciplinary opportunity is for students majoring in biochemistry, chemistry, materials/polymer science, and chemical engineering.  

To be considered, you must submit a current resume and transcript, in the "Transcript" section of the application. Merge your resume and transcript into a single document (e.g., one PDF) and upload that file.  If necessary, a short interview may be used to make the final selection.

Name of research group, project, or lab
Bermudez group
Why participate in this opportunity?

     Students will obtain hands-on experience in an interdisciplinary project that ranges from fundamental protein studies to applied materials science.  

Logistics Information:
Field(s) of Study
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Biology
Chemical Engineering
Chemistry
Student ranks applicable
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Student qualifications

    1. Relevant major (Bio, Chem, Biochem, or Chem Eng)
    2. Motivated to learn and to contribute intellectually to the research topic.
    3. Ability to commit to a consistent schedule throughout the semester.
    4. Experience in wet lab skills is highly desired.
 

Time commitment
5-7 h/wk
8-10 h/wk
Position Types and Compensation
Credit for Research and Teaching
Unpaid - Volunteer
Number of openings
1
Techniques learned

    1. Enzymatic conversion and quantification studies
        a. UV-vis spectroscopy
        b. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC)
        c. (possibly) Optical microscopy
    2. Synthesis of deep eutectic solvents
    3. Design of experiments with appropriate controls
    4. Data analysis and presentation (tables, figures)

 

Project start
Sep 8, 2026
Contact Information:
Mentor
bermudez@umass.edu
Principal Investigator
Name of project director or principal investigator
Harry Bermudez
Email address of project director or principal investigator
bermudez@umass.edu
1 sp. | 34 appl.
Time commitment
5-7 h/wk (+1)
5-7 h/wk8-10 h/wk
Field(s) of Study
Chemical Engineering (+3)
Biochemistry & Molecular BiologyBiologyChemical EngineeringChemistry