I was able to optimize yeast propagation for 1st generation biofuel production to predict yeast growth and ethanol yield to improve industrial plant fermentation performance. I also had the opportunity to visit other parts of the Novozymes site outside of the Technical Service department to shadow employees in engineering operations.

USDA funded PineRefSeq Project aims to create a conifer reference genome by sequencing and analyzing the DNA of loblolly pine trees. Because of this project I became proficient in preparation and extraction of DNA. I also experimented with pine DNA nuclei isolation techniques and extracted DNA samples for Weyerhaeuser. To assist a research study on Phytophthora through the NCSU Christmas Tree Program, I was given the chance to inoculate and study fir saplings.