Key Focus:

Cellulase production: I specialize in growing Trichoderma reesei Rut C-30. This branched fungus was isolated from cotton tents during World War II. After a number of years and numerous rounds of mutations, T. reesei is the go-to fungus for cellulase enzyme production. These enzymes are able to hydrolyze the glycosidic bonds that hold together cellulose (plant material). This process digests the cellulose into simple glucose sugars.

Fungal morphology of T. reesei Rut C-30: With much attention on the genetics, expression and production of cellulase, I am working on the morphology. The goal is to make industrial processing faster, cheaper, and easier.

Soy protein process modeling: Although soy protein production has been practiced for years in industrial food manufacturing, our project is purely enzymatic upgrading of the protein. I specialize in understanding how our basic process understanding translates into making a profit.

Lab Methods:

Intracellular protein testing: A visual guide to quantifying the amount of protein within a cell.
HPLC Information: A presentation covering some key points related to HPLC equipment