Birgit Wiltschi

Birgit Wiltschi is a leading researcher in synthetic biology and industrial biotechnology, currently heading the Synthetic Biology Group at the Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology (acib). She is also affiliated with the Graz University of Technology and the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna. Her academic career spans over two decades, with roles ranging from postdoctoral scientist at the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry to group leader at the University of Freiburg.

Education:

• 1988–1996: Diploma in Biochemistry, Graz University of Technology, Austria
• 1997–2002: Doctoral Studies (Dr. techn.), Graz University of Technology, Austria

Research Interests:

Wiltschi's research is centered on the use of non-canonical amino acids (ncAAs) as building blocks for synthetic proteins and bioactive compounds. Her group develops tools for protein engineering and metabolic reprogramming, aiming to improve enzyme performance, stability, and functionality. The lab employs advanced techniques such as Gibson cloning, lambda Red recombineering, and bioreactor-based expression systems.

Scientific Output:

Her recent publications reflect a strong focus on bioconjugate chemistry, cancer-targeting peptides, and genetic code expansion. These works demonstrate a clear trend toward translational applications, including biosensors, immunotherapeutics, and next-generation biologics.

Projects and Grants:

• DYNIMO (2020–2022): Dynamics of Subcellular Partitioning through Protein Modification
• FET-Open PURE (2020–): Project Assistant
• SFB Biomembranes (1995–2005): Co-Investigator

Labs and Teams:

Wiltschi leads the Synthetic Biology Group at acib, where she oversees a multidisciplinary team focused on protein engineering, metabolic pathway design, and host strain optimization. The lab is equipped with state-of-the-art tools for cloning, expression, purification, and functional analysis of engineered proteins.