Ben Nason's Profile
Benjamin Nason
Background:
Originally from Massachusetts I am happily a State College transplant. I grew up loving both engineering, design and biology. Despite choosing to study Horticulture over his other interests, I have still made time to keep in touch with my inner designer.
I am kept up at night thinking about developing bio-based solutions for modern problems. I am currently’ living the dream’.
Projects:
I am currently working on developing a bio-based concrete using genetic modification and multiple organisms to produce proteins that induce calcification of a substrate. This project falls under the larger subject of biomineralization, also being a major topic of interest for me. The aim of the project is to create an equivalent product to concrete with multiple superior qualities.
In my other lab, I am working on A. thaliana nutritional research to further research about Mn toxicity and the physiological response to this particular stress.
In the fall, I will begin my research regarding fungal brick construction and associated variety trials for different strains of fungi. I am looking to find the strongest strain of Basidiomycete for use in sustainable and temporary construction.
When not in lab, I am starting a snack foods business as well as being a officer in the Penn State entrepreneurial group.
Publications/Presentations:
None
Awards:
None
Contact Information: (optional)