Meet the team: Evan Gibbs

One of two creators of the DeNovocastrians & “Head Guru”

Introduction
Currently undertaking a PHD in molecular microbiology at the University of Newcastle, Evan is broadly working in small molecule overproduction of bacterial cell lines- derived from fossil fuel sources; using high throughput methods of sequencing and novel screening techniques- aiming to derive rational designs of metabolomics. As a mature aged student Evan has completed a Bachelor of science with 1st class honours, majoring in biology. Before his academic career, Evan grew up in and around Newcastle and has run hotels in both regional NSW and Sydney.

Why did you join/start the team?
“I met Joachim and we started talking about ways we could kick-start synthetic biology at the University of Newcastle, since the ARC centres of excellence hadn't been founded at that point. We thought it was good way to get students involved in synthetic biology since there hadn't been any previously.”

What’s your role in the team?
Evan is our Head guru, organising and overseeing projects.

What inspires you?
“Fermentation and all its fates and permutations.”

What have you accomplished with the team so far?
“I’ve definitely gotten a great learning curve out of being involved with young people, usually this kind of opportunity doesn't happen in an ongoing way with undergraduate students. It’s been a great opportunity with crack-budding scientists to help guide them into furthering themselves.”

What do you do outside of this?
Outside of DeNovocastirans and his PhD, Evan brews beer and spends time hanging out with his two Jackshunds and his nephew.