(6aa) Engineering Microorganisms and Their Environment for Increased Performance in Biorenewable Applications

Research Interests: Microbes are useful tools in a number of relevant engineering applications including biorenewable chemical and fuel production. In my graduate work, I investigated microbial robustness to biomass-derived feedstocks and products for improved performance in biorenewable applications. Key outcomes of my research were an emulsion formulation which enabled P. putida KT2440 to grow in pyrolytic bio-oil and a unique disk diffusion assay which can be used to simultaneously assess tolerance and scavenging abilities of lignin utilizing microbes. In my future work, I aspire to continue in metabolic engineering and biotechnology while addressing gaps between academic and industry for instance by seeking collaborations with industry. Although the future of biorenewable fuels and chemicals is precarious, investigating and improving upon the principles of using a tunable and flexible microorganism is well worth the research. Applications of microorganisms span everything from crop productivity, food preservation, and human health.

Teaching Interests: In graduate school, I was a teaching assistant, guest lecturer, and research mentor. I also participated in a unique fellowship called Trinect. In Trinect, I teamed up with an elementary teacher and a student teacher to teach science and engineering to Des Moines public schools. These opportunities inspired my teaching philosophy which centers on effective, student-centered teaching of chemical engineering courses. I am motivated to value all students, to provide students with the tools they need to fulfill their goals, and to help students discover their potential. I aspire to be the type of teacher that I always admired when I was a student-the kind that takes the time to help any and all students including the ones who are struggling. Part of valuing each student is to recognize their goals while also helping them to fulfill the goals of the course. As part of the program at Iowa State called Preparing Future Faculty, I practiced designing courses so that they are aligned with learning goals, and I am confident in applying what I learned in the future. Although I think it is important to address both individual and course goals, I also want to reach beyond and help students discover their full potential. Even in bigger classes, I look forward to using teaching strategies such as team-based learning in order to allow each student to feel like they are getting the feedback they need to succeed. I am grateful for the teachers and mentors in my life who have supported me in my academic and professional career to realize my dreams. I will continue educating and helping students gain the tools they need to realize their own dreams.