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Michael Ream
Background:
I am currently a senior in Chemical Engineering.
I was born and raised in Somerset. A small town in the mountains of western PA, where not much of anything happens. I am a very big fan of Pittsburgh sports teams, and sports in general my favorite being basketball. I am a huge fan of almost all music and attempt to play bass guitar and piano.
I have been working with Dr. Curtis in his lab since my sophomore year. I originally joined the lab to explore the alternative energy applications of algae biofuels. Shortly after, I became interested in the incredible capabilities of the biological world. His diverse lab has fueled my curiosity and allowed me to grow as a researcher. I was able to work on a variety of projects including my current project of making glowing plants!
Projects:
I began by working on a method to easily and effectively separate Botryococcus braunii from a solution or fresh water sample. The project was affectionately nicknamed “Botry Kits” and was later passed to underclassmen looking to work in the algae field.
I then researched and constructed the ThorLab optical imaging equipment in the lab as part of the DARPA Insect Allies project. I trained numerous personnel on the use of the equipment and generated training materials on the use of the optics. I also designed a similar microscope for our collaborators in University of Florida and UTSA. Dr. Curtis and I took a trip down to UF where I constructed the microscope and trained personnel on its use <Thorlab Microscope SOP>. I remain the primary contact for upgrades and use on the optical equipment in the lab.
To develop molecular biology skills during my senior year, I worked on my own project to generate glowing plants! I am attempting to integrate a luciferin biosynthesis pathway into the model organism Arabidopsis thaliana. I am using a circadian clock based promoter to only have the bioluminescence active at night. Hopefully, I will have exciting pictures of glowing plants soon.
Publications/Presentations:
2018 REU presentation poster and slides
Awards:
- Dean’s List 2016-2019
- Summer Research Fellowship for Chemical Engineering 2018
- McWhirter Scholarship in Chemical Engineering 2018-2019
- Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Scholarship 2019
Contact Information:
Phone: 8142333531
Email: mjr6001@psu.edu
Personal Email (not checked daily): mjream888@gmail.com
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