Federico Sabbadin

Dr. Federico Sabbadin is a Lecturer in the Department of Biology at the University of York, affiliated with the Centre for Novel Agricultural Products (CNAP). His research focuses on discovering and characterising enzymes from plant pathogens, insects, and algae to address agricultural and industrial challenges. Key areas include microbial virulence factors in crop protection, biomass valorisation through insect enzymes, and algal polysaccharide metabolism.

His work on Phytophthora infestans revealed critical roles of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) in plant infection, leading to novel crop protection strategies. Research on insects explores enzymes enabling digestion of recalcitrant polymers like cellulose and lignin, with applications in sustainable biotechnology. In algae, his group identified the first LPMO family in green microalgae, advancing algal biomass conversion technologies.

Teaching emphasizes molecular machines (enzymes) and invertebrate biology, fostering student skills in scientific analysis, communication, and essay writing. Students engage in lab-based projects within CNAP, investigating enzymes from plant pathogens, algae, and insects using omics, molecular biology, and structural techniques.

Lab investigations combine transcriptomics, proteomics, and 3D structural predictions to dissect pathogen virulence mechanisms and identify targets for crop protection. Current efforts explore biocatalytic applications of insect-derived enzymes and algal LPMOs for biofuel and material production. Sabbadin’s work bridges fundamental biology with applied solutions for food security and sustainable resource management.