Darren Nesbeth's research is focused on the industrial application of synthetic biology for the re-design of living cells for improved upstream and downstream bioprocessing. His expertise is in the use of molecular biology, intracellular trafficking and protein engineering to design cells with useful functions that are also robust to industrial environments. His research experience spans working with viruses, bacteria, yeast, protozoa, mammalian cells and human cells in the fields of biopharmaceutical manufacturing, cell and gene therapy, whole cell biocatalysis, cultured foods and 3D bioprinting. 

In addition to applied research Darren also investigates the fundamental properties of synthetic gene networks and the biologically realisable design of cells that autonomously optimise their ability to perform a pre-programmed function. His research has also explored the feasibility of establishing synthetic biology standards in bioprocess monitoring and genome design. Darren has extensive experience providing expert advice to biotechnology companies, including Ingenza, BJS Biotechnologies, Enteromics, Bento Bioworks Ltd, SilicoLife, Selectamark Security Systems Plc, Bio-Prodict, Vapourtec and cultured food companies such as Clean Food Group, Caviar Biotec and Better Dairy.