Trent Smith Email & Phone Number

San Diego, Ca, Us

San Diego, Ca, Us

San Diego, California, United States

Created mutagenic library designs for several enzymes, utilizing protein modeling software (Discovery Studio) and historical data to pinpoint mutational spaces that will improve enzyme features. Took charge in developing and optimizing multiple enzyme assays and workflows, enhancing the characterization and assessment of target enzymes. Leveraged automated robots (Echo, Bravo, Qpix) to efficiently set up and screen thousands of enzyme variants. Meticulously processed, analyzed, and ranked their performance utilizing tools like Gen5, Excel, and Spotfire applications. Presented data and results on campaign screens, offering insights for optimizing enzyme hits and providing recommendations for strain integration.Conducted weekly in vitro bench-top assays on fermentation time-course pellets, analyzing enzyme expression and activity, and communicating findings and next-steps to the team.

Designed and constructed thousands of single and multi-gene plasmids using golden-gate cloning, gibson assembly, and other PCR techniques. Leveraged automated equipment (Echo 525 and Qpix) to simultaneously construct hundreds of plasmids. Concurrently, kept plasmid requesters well-informed about the progress of their plasmid requests.Evolved the current plasmid inventory (>1000 plasmids) to be automation compatible which included meticulously recording plasmid concentration, final plasmid destination, and glycerol stock locations.Developed and created plasmid-based tools to streamline CRISPR Cas9/Cas12a editing workflows, including constructing CRISPR arrays, plasmid-based homology arms, and guide plasmids.

Contributed to the seamless execution of research activities by ensuring the availability and quality of crucial resources for experiments (media plates, buffers, antibiotics, chemical or electro-competent cells, and other media requests). Successfully conducted hundreds of plasmid extractions on a daily basis in an efficient and quality matter to streamline researcher's workflows. Took charge of coordinating the pick-up and delivery of express mail services, managing inventory logistics and stocking essential supplies to ensure uninterrupted research operations. Meticulously labeled, stored, and maintained accurate records for incoming chemicals, prioritizing safety and compliance.Diligently carried out daily washing and autoclaving of glassware and supplies. Maintained and monitored -80°C freezers and coordinated calibration services for lab equipment. Established an organized, clean, and safe lab space.

Utilized C1-Biocatalysis and dry fermentation techniques to sustain active methanotrophic cells on a specialized filter for a bio-filtration device targeting methane reduction. Managed a bioreactor fermentation system, analyzed and presented research findings, prepared media, and ensured a sterile lab environment.