Cathleen Zeymer

Cathleen Zeymer is a Professor at the Department of Bioscience, Technical University of Munich (TUM), leading the Professorship for Protein Chemistry. Her research focuses on protein chemistry, enzyme engineering, and biocatalytic systems with particular emphasis on photocatalysis, metalloproteins, and rare earth elements. She holds a doctoral degree (Dr. rer. nat.) and is affiliated with the TUM School of Natural Sciences. Her work integrates interdisciplinary approaches to design novel enzymes and explore elemental utilization in biological systems.

Her research interests include the development of artificial metalloenzymes, photocatalytic radical cyclizations, and understanding the roles of lanthanides and actinides in microbial life. She investigates enzyme evolution dynamics, biocatalytic pathways, and sustainable biotechnological applications. Her lab addresses challenges in photocatalysis and explores future perspectives through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Prof. Zeymer’s research spans topics such as de novo enzyme design, enzymatic catalysis mechanisms, and the application of radioactive elements like promethium in biological contexts. Her work often highlights the potential of rare earth elements in biorecycling and designer enzyme development. She maintains a strong focus on protein engineering, including electrostatic coupling analysis and directed evolution strategies.

Her publications reflect a commitment to advancing biocatalysis, metalloprotein engineering, and understanding elemental interactions in biological systems. Current research trends include exploring minor actinides’ roles in bacterial metabolism and optimizing catalytic efficiency through laboratory evolution techniques.