Material Measurement Laboratory | Fluid Characterization Group

• PhD Advisor: Dr. Arthur J. Ragauskas (http://biorefinery.utk.edu/) • Published 5 first author peer-reviewed journal articles. Co-authored an additional 8 publications. • Analyzed lignin of over 400 unique Populus trichocarpa genotypes via HSQC NMR. This deep phenotyping enabled a genome-wide associate study to identify novel associations between lignin structure and new genes to provide opportunities to improve poplar as a biomass feedstock.• Evaluated leaf tissue and effect of Septoria pathogen infection of Populus. Characterized cell wall structures by NMR and FTIR. Verified semi-quantitative NMR measurements of hydroxycinnamates with quantitative HPLC. • Collaborated with external research groups to characterize various biomass and bio-based materials by NMR (13C, 1H, 31P, 13C CP/MAS, HSQC, HMBC, HSQC-TOSCY), HPAE-PAD, GPC, and UV/VIS.• Trained junior graduate students and visiting scholars on instrument operation • Awarded Science Alliance Student Mentoring and Research Training Fellowship

• Lead cross-functional team to assess a 25# compressed air system in order to improve reliability and mitigate critical failures. Assessment resulted in successful completion of over 30 action items and $50K/year cost savings from reliability improvements which reduced air consumption and energy usage. • Executed process capability runs in order to assess baseline variability of pilot plant equipment and evaluate opportunities for variability reduction. Implemented upgrades and regulated processing techniques to reduce total variability by 50%. Authored three technical reports to detail findings. • Coordinated a six week new product development project across six processing areas for an extended continuous run in the pilot plant. Produced over 100 units for application development testing. • Collaborated with research chemist and project manager to design and execute processing of experimental material to support development of patent US20150377854A1. • Performed raw material qualification testing for new product line. Quantified and reported key processing information for development of cost analysis.• Managed many safety aspects of the pilot plant, such as: lead PHA style safety review, initiated MOCs, and lead/participated in numerous TSA/JSA. • Mentored five undergraduate co-ops and inters. Delegated responsibilities and provided guidance for duties such as: redlining drawings, PI processbook utilization, designing and executing experiments, data analysis, and reviewing technical reports.

• Process owner of recovery system• Perform essential setpoint calculation for design verification to ensure safety and regulatory requirements are met• Utilize Excel, ChemCad, and other design software to perform engineering evaluations to improve process safety, product quality, and reduce cost while maintaining safety and regulatory compliance• Address emergent operational and equipment issues and direct troubleshooting efforts• Collaborated with operations, safety, work management, contractors, and maintenance to develop and implement design changes• Engaged in human performance team which developed and produced a handbook and conducted training in human error reduction techniques for all knowledge workers• Maintain active DOE Q and NRC U security clearances