Dr. Karen Polizzi

Professor

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Biography

Karen Polizzi's main research theme revolves around detecting 'bad behaviour' in cells using a combination of in vivo biosensors and synthetic biology. Her work focuses on developing genetically-encoded biosensors that fuse transcriptional elements with reporter proteins to sense molecules of interest and convert their concentration into a digital output. These sensors serve as convenient tools for monitoring cellular behaviour in real time without the need for external reagents. Polizzi's research employs synthetic biology techniques to design new circuits that can control cellular behaviour, ultimately aiming to create self-correcting organisms. Her laboratory's goals include developing proteins that provide visual indicators of cellular states, allowing for early identification of problems within cells. The overarching ambition of her research is to harness advancements in recombinant DNA technology and synthetic biology to benefit biopharmaceutical processing and tackle issues related to neurodegeneration and aging.

Research Interests

Requirements for Imperial College London

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:22
Speaking
Required:22
Total
Required:100
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:125
Overall
Required:125
Prerequisites
Materials Science Mechanical Engineering Civil Engineering Chemical Engineering Physics Chemistry
Application Checklist
  • Personal statement
  • CV/resume
  • Official university transcripts
  • Two academic or professional references
  • Application fee (£90)
Specialization Notes

Specialisms available in Materials for the Energy Transition or Theory and Simulation of Materials.