Mike Webb

Professor Mike Webb is a faculty member in the School of Chemistry at the University of Leeds, within the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences. His research program centers on chemical biology, focusing on protein modification, phosphorylation, bacterial toxins, and biosynthesis. He leads a dynamic research group that investigates both the biochemical and chemical aspects of protein function and manipulation.

His research interests include:

• Development of chemoenzymatic and chemical strategies for site-specific protein modification
• Biosynthesis of primary and secondary metabolites such as vitamin B5, surugamides, and antimycins
• Role and regulation of post-translational modifications, especially non-canonical phosphorylation (e.g., phosphohistidine) and autocatalytic cofactor formation
• Applications in cellular imaging, drug delivery, and protein interaction analysis

He utilizes advanced biophysical techniques including surface plasmon resonance (SPR), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) to characterize enzyme behavior and protein dynamics. His work bridges biochemistry and synthetic chemistry to enable novel biotechnological and therapeutic applications.

Professor Webb collaborates with researchers such as Dr. Ryan Seipke on natural product biosynthesis. His lab focuses on pushing the boundaries of protein manipulation in native folded states, contributing to fundamental understanding and practical tools in chemical biology.

He is actively involved in research and mentoring, with no indication of retirement or former status. His office is located in room G.16, and he can be contacted via email or phone as listed.