Project 2: Investigated algae-based biofuels and bioproducts using wastewater in the lab of Dr. Kim Ogden.This research was part of the Regional Algal Feedstock Testbed (RAFT) partnership, a DOE project. More information can be found here: http://uanews.org/story/energy-department-awards-ua-led-team-8m-to-research-algae-biofuelProject 1:Investigated the fate and (bio)remediation of nitro-based Insensitive Munition Compounds (IMC/IMX), particularly 5-nitro-2,4-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazol-3-one (NTO) in the lab of Dr. Jim Field and Dr. Reyes Sierra. Researched the molecular ecology of IMC/IMX-degrading microorganisms.This project is part of a Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) multidisciplinary project (ER-2221). More information can be found here: http://uanews.org/story/ua-researchers-hunt-bomb-eating-bugs

Investigated microbial enzymes involved in s-triazine (e.g., atrazine, melamine) metabolic pathways in the lab of Dr. Lawrence Wackett and in collaboration with Dr. Michael Sadowsky.Research focused on biocatalysis & biodegradation related to an enzyme-based biosensor for a food cotoxicant and the enzymatic removal of cyanuric acid from swimming pools.Co-inventor: provisional United States patent application filed for the enzyme biuret hydrolase and its role in cyanuric acid detection via the U of MN’s Office for Technology Commercialization. 2010.Lab websites: https://cbs.umn.edu/wackett-lab/homehttp://www.bti.umn.edu/faculty/biosadowsky.html

Development of a rapid, colorimetric screening method to detect olefins (alkenes) produced by specific bacteria. Investigations pertaining to hydrocarbon production (or lack thereof) by bacteria in the lab of Dr. Lawrence Wackett.

Biochemistry and molecular biology research on two dozen enzymes and genes in platform bacterial strain for production & commercialization of BioIsoprene (TM) - a Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award project in collaboration with Goodyear®.

Taught microbiology & immunology lab to medical students. Performed procedures and assays (microbiology, virology, genetics, immunology, biochemistry) to support laboratory courses. Prepared reagents, equipment, and demonstrations.

Since second promotion to Information Technology Coordinator, creatively investigated, analyzed, designed, and implemented software/ hardware solutions and work flow systems for business needs at headquarters and with remote staff.Collaborated with KRW team members to contribute technical expertise to cross-functional problem solving and idea generation through goal-specific projects.Developed quality technical documentation.