Major Professor: Dr. Bonning

Home Department: Entomology

Thesis Title: Engineering Cry4Aa for toxicity against the soybean aphid, Aphid glycine Matsumura

Fellowships and Awards: Miller Fellowship

Current Job Title: Senior Research Associate II

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Please describe your current position

Research and Development

Please describe your research at ISU

Protein engineering

How did your time in the Interdepartmental Microbiology program prepare you for your current position?

Time management and broad technique background.

What advice would you give students looking for work in a similar position or field?

The model system doesn’t matter as much as having experience with diverse molecular and biochemical techniques. Take every chance to learn new techniques even if the short-term payoff isn’t there.

What are your favorite part of the Interdepartmental Microbiology program?

MGSO and the availability of the professors.

What was your favorite part of living in Ames?

Small city with some big-city perks. Great opportunities for intramural sports teams through the city and university.

If you could give new students in the program a piece of advice, what would you say?

Document well, write early.

What advice would you give students about to graduate and enter the job market?

Unless you are going into academia, keep that resume SHORT, no longer than a page. The first person to see your resume will probably not be a scientist, but a recruiter or HR who are not scientists. Keep your skills - lab and soft - high on the page and tailored to the job you’re applying to.