Graduate Education
Levi Lowder
Ph.D. Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences
Education History:
-B.S. Cellular and Molecular Biology Cum Laude: Fort Lewis College Durango, CO (Dec. 2008)
-Research assistant/technician in molecular biology and biochemistry (2007-2009)
-PhD candidate (PhC) Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences (MCLS) program, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Wyoming
Research Description:
My research focuses on genetic engineering of microalgae for industrial, agricultural and technological applications. One project involves engineering single-celled microalgae to clump together upon genetic induction. This would reduce energy and monetary cost of harvesting microalgae for biofuels, animal feed, plastics and other commodities. A more advanced project aims to develop transgenic algae that can self-assemble into useful biological structures and materials.
Why did you choose UW for graduate education?
I chose to pursue graduate education for one reason: to work on advanced biofuels. UW supported that priority more than any other program I toured. Additionally, I was impressed with the high caliber of research and graduate training that I found when I visited UW. The Mountain West culture and lifestyle was also a huge bonus.
Current position:
Third year PhD candidate working in the lab of Dr. Stephen K. Herbert.
Future goals:
After obtaining a PhD I would like to pursue post-doctoral training in molecular phycology and biotechnology. Ultimately, I hope to own or work for an algal biotech company.
Advise to prospective students:
UW has many great professors and much to offer. I recommend you visit Laramie and meet with professors working in a field that interests you. You will be pleasantly surprised.
Levi Lowder
The University of Wyoming has earned its Research Level 1 (R1) status from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, placing Wyoming's only four-year university with the top research universities in the United States.