Elk Crew

Enzymes designed by nature, and refined for chemistry. We are a research group specialized in biocatalysis, using enzymes to enable and accelerate chemical reactions with high selectivity, under mild and sustainable conditions. Our work lies at the interface of organic synthesis, enzyme discovery, and molecular engineering. From known catalysts like lipases and proteases to obscure extremophilic enzymes, we search, grow, and evolve biocatalysts for reactions that traditional chemistry struggles with. Our collection includes over 600 bacteria, fungi, and extremophiles, serving as a toolbox for innovation. We explore both natural and non-natural activities, and focus on process optimization to bridge the gap between laboratory discovery and real-world application. Our mission? To cut through tedious multi-step syntheses and replace them with elegant, enzyme-driven solutions. We collaborate with industrial and governmental partners to translate discoveries into impact, and we host MSc and BSc students eager to work at the frontiers of sustainable chemistry. 🌐 Website: http://biocatalysis.uni-graz.at Follow us on: X: https://x.com/elk_crew YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@elkcrew9537 Bluesky: (soon)