Luke Mackinder

Professor Luke Mackinder is the CNAP Chair in Algal Cell and Molecular Biology at the University of York's Department of Biology. His research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of carbon fixation in algae and cyanobacteria, particularly the CO2-concentrating mechanism (CCM) and its potential application to improve crop photosynthesis. He uses systems and synthetic biology approaches, including high-throughput methods and phase separation studies, to dissect the structure and function of organelles like the pyrenoid. His lab employs cutting-edge techniques such as fluorescent protein tagging (CyanoTag project) and cryo-electron microscopy to visualize and manipulate cellular components.

Education: Received his PhD from Durham University and completed postdoctoral research at the Carnegie Institution for Plant Biology, Stanford University. Current teaching includes microbiology modules and biotechnology-based plant engineering courses.

Research Highlights: Discovery of EPYC1 proteins in pyrenoid organization, development of tools for diatom and cyanobacterial proteomics, and exploration of phase-separated organelles. Awards include the SEB President's Medal for Cell Biology (2018).

• Lab Focus: CCM components, Rubisco condensation, synthetic biology for crop improvement.
• Key Collaborations: CyanoTag project, international conferences (CCM10, Plastid Preview), and initiatives like the Carbon Technology Research Foundation.

Lab members include postdocs and PhD students working on CCM proteins, diatom biology, and synthetic biology applications. Outreach efforts include school engagement programs and public talks.