Antonio Ariza

Dr. Antonio Ariza is a University Teaching Associate in Molecular Biology at the University of Sheffield’s School of Biosciences. His career includes postdoctoral research roles at the Universities of Oxford, Leeds, York, and Dundee, alongside a part-time PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Dundee. He specializes in structural studies of nucleic-acid binding proteins, focusing on viral RNA-binding proteins, bacterial DNA-binding toxin-antitoxin systems, and archaeal DNA-repair enzymes. Recently, he expanded into biotechnology, studying plastic-degrading enzymes. He teaches modules across undergraduate, postgraduate, and MSc programs, including molecular biology practicals and advanced research topics.

Education:

• BSc (Hons) Microbial Biotechnology, University of Abertay (1995–2000)
• PhD Structural Biology, University of Dundee (2002–2006, part-time)

Research Interests:

Dr. Ariza’s research explores nucleic acid-binding proteins’ structural and functional aspects, including viral RNA interactions, bacterial toxin-antitoxin systems, and DNA repair mechanisms. His recent work integrates biotechnological approaches to develop enzymes for plastic degradation, addressing environmental challenges.

Teaching:

Covers molecular biology at all academic levels, emphasizing hypothesis-driven practicals and biotechnology applications. Modules include BISC001, MBB225, and specialized MSc courses like Cellular Systems Engineering.

Research Contributions:

His publications span ADP-ribosylation mechanisms, enzyme structures (e.g., phytase, amylases), and viral protein studies. Current projects bridge fundamental structural biology and applied biotechnology solutions.