Erickson
- BS (Mechanical Engineering), Ohio State University
- MBA, Pepperdine University
- Ph.D. (Biochemistry), University of Colorado – Boulder
As a Senior Research Associate at JILA, my work is focused on developing high throughput, analytical instruments to evaluate cyanobacteria and algae for their biofuel/biochemical production potential. These evaluations are performed at the single cell level and are capable of measuring physical properties such as cell size (based on forward scattered light), chlorophyll content, photosynthetic efficiencies (real-time quantum yield measurements) and lipid production (using lipid-specific fluorescence stains). Previous research concentrated on custom-built, microfluidic cytometers that were used to assess the effect of culture conditions upon lipid production in diatoms (Phaeodactylum tricornutum). Previous collaborations with major research labs investigated synergistic properties of mixed algal/cyanobacterial populations. Current research focuses on selection/sorting schemes to assist research in library screens, signal transduction pathway discovery and strain improvement. Work on these projects is rewarding because of the challenging mix of engineering, physical, biological and biochemical sciences.
The Physics Frontiers Centers (PFC) program supports university-based centers and institutes where the collective efforts of a larger group of individuals can enable transformational advances in the most promising research areas. The program is designed to foster major breakthroughs at the intellectual frontiers of physics by providing needed resources such as combinations of talents, skills, disciplines, and/or specialized infrastructure, not usually available to individual investigators or small groups, in an environment in which the collective efforts of the larger group can be shown to be seminal to promoting significant progress in the science and the education of students. PFCs also include creative, substantive activities aimed at enhancing education, broadening participation of traditionally underrepresented groups, and outreach to the scientific community and general public.