Lydia Bennett

PIPS Host Organisation: Sekisui Diagnostics

PIPS Project Title: Improving Streptavidin Expression from Streptomyces avidinii Through Media Development

During Lydia’s 3-month PIPS placement at Sekisui Diagnostics, She worked closely with the Upstream Team to optimise the production of streptavidin, a protein widely used in diagnostics and research. Her project focused on testing different production media to identify conditions that could improve protein yields. She conducted shake flask experiments to screen and compare media, then scaled up the most promising conditions to 2L fermenters to assess their performance at a larger scale.

Lydia also collaborated with members of the Analytical Team, gaining hands-on experience with equipment such as the CE-SDS machine, which broadened her understanding of protein analysis and industrial research workflows. Through this work, she developed practical skills in microbial culture, protein production, process optimisation, data analysis, and troubleshooting. Working closely with the team also highlighted the importance of effective communication, adaptability, and collaboration in a professional research environment.

Overall, Lydia found the placement extremely rewarding, as it allowed her to contribute to a real industrial project, strengthened her scientific skills, and confirmed her desire to pursue a career in R&D within industry. It also provided valuable insight into the biotechnology sector and the diverse roles and opportunities it offers, making it an inspiring and confidence-building experience that she absolutely loved having the opportunity to be a part of.

Lydia shared that her fresh perspective during her placement at Sekisui Diagnostics helped drive the project forward. The placement not only strengthened links between academia and industry, but also contributed to improvements in biotechnological processes used in diagnostics and research at Sekisui Diagnostics.

Sekisui Diagnostics shared positive feedback on Lydia’s contribution, describing her as “a great addition to the upstream processing team.” They also noted that “she showed enthusiasm throughout the project and demonstrated strong ownership of her work.”