Heather Callahan Email and Phone Number

Worked with the Endolith teams to transfer and support both a 16S microbial community diagnostic workflow and transcriptomics from dificult to extract mining rock.

Remotely developed and directed a genomics and bioprospecting core for microbial detection, identification and engineering to advance Cemvita's carbon negative goals across energy industries. In my leadership role, I also served as the in-house expert on all genomics applications and coordinated collaborative processes across teams and projects, facilitating seamless communication and adherence to project scopes. Managing and mentored highly technical staff was especially rewarding.

Developed and led a scalable subsurface microbial DNA/RNA extraction and next-gen sequencing pipeline to map microbial communities in the earth's subsurface. We developed novel methods to extract DNA from subsurface rock and crude oil, saving oil and gas companies tens of millions of dollars in exploratory drilling.During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic we did our part, by using our expertise to develop a sample to sequencing workflow to detect the virus from waste water at assisted living facilities using custom primers prior to the development of commercial kits.

Senior R&D scientist with expertise in DNA, RNA, and protein extraction productdevelopment from concept to marketing and post launch support. During my time at MO BIO (now a Qiagen company), I successfully developed and launched 13 DNA, RNA, and protein extraction kits that led to 5 patent submissions. Products were universally designed for diverse sample types including stool, microbial cultures, water filters, air filters, food, soils, seeds and biofilm. Product development included technical writing and editing of product work orders, protocols, SOPs, application notes, white papers, scientific posters, and marketing presentations related to these products. Customer facing technical support was also an important aspect of my position that often led to new product development ideas.

Managed grant based and privately funded research related to the development of bacteriophage based therapeutics as alternatives to antibiotics for aquaculture, agriculture, and human applications. Responsible for isolating and characterizing environmental bacteriophages, training staff, and in vivo testing of phage cocktails. Assisted with hatchery management and relevant documentation.