Henry Nvenankeng

PIPS host organisation: Syngenta, Bracknell, UK

Henry spent 5 months at Syngenta, his project’s industry partner, investigating the functional properties of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor EAT-2. 

His research was aimed at characterizing EAT-2 (a receptor thought to regulate feeding behaviours in round worms) as a bona fide target for the chemical control of parasitic worms (nematodes). By functionally expressing the receptor in a non native system (frog eggs), Henry was able to test some compounds and check for interaction with the receptor. His assay validated some lead compounds which he is currently testing on plant parasitic nematodes.

Henry’s time at Syngenta was worth the while as he learned new skills in molecular biology, electrophysiology, and CRISPR. These skills have come in handy after his return to the University of Southampton as he has been able to continue using them.  

With the daunting question of “what next after PhD?” pre occupying Henry’s mind, he made sure to make valuable connections during his time at the company. Henry enjoys applied research, so his time at Syngenta just reassured him why he would want to work for Industry.