What characterizes Novozymes' Research & Development?
I think that what really drives us is that we love enzymes; that we can find and build proteins to improve industrial processes, reducing waste and protecting the environment; the fact that our daily work helps solve real problems in the world.
I like the fact that we have a strong commitment to Research & Development. We spent 13% of our annual turnover on Research & Development in 1999.
That kind of investment has paid off over the years: we have been the first to develop almost all the major innovations in the enzyme industry over the past 40 years.
We have mastered a number of technologies, including genetic and protein engineering, gene shuffling, high-throughput screening, cloning, expression of proteins in fungi and bacteria, microbiology, fermentation, purification and formulation, and a lot more.
I can also add that Nature recently invited Novozymes to sponsor a special supplement, which will appear in December, on biocatalysis, the biochemical activity that takes place when enzymes turn one substance into another. Nature approached us because they saw us as the natural choice to sponsor a supplement of this kind.
Why do you want to work for Novozymes?
Because we are at the leading edge of biotechnology, we've got great people here, and that combination gives me a kick every day.