Ujor Laboratory

Research interests: Fermentation, renewable fuels and biochemicals, metabolic engineering/synthetic biology, bioprocess design, bioconversion of food wastes and agricultural residues to value-added products.

My current research involves the bioconversion of low-cost wastes to value-added products and chemicals using genome editing tools and fermentation technology. Specifically, I am utilizing the CRISPR/Cas tool to engineer Clostridium spp. to efficiently convert whey permeate to butanol and other bulk chemicals. Overall, my research goal is to deliver sustainable solutions to real-world challenges with molecular biology tools and fermentation technology. Besides research, I enjoy bicycle riding, hiking with friends and listening to music. I also love spending time with my family.

My research interest is centered on advancing a circular economy by utilizing agricultural and industrial wastes as low-cost substrates for the sustainable and cleaner production of biofuels and platform chemicals. I am particularly passionate about applying engineering and statistical methodologies to optimize fermentation processes for the efficient production of value-added chemicals. In my free time, I enjoy photography, embarking on road trips for long-distance drives to clear my mind, and playing the talking drum.

Currently, I am working on engineering robust microbial strains with enhanced capacity to produce biofuels and chemicals from low-cost agricultural residues. I am using the CRISPR/Cas system to construct target microbial strains. Asides research, I have a huge passion for soccer, rap music, and watching historical movies/documentaries.

My research focuses on using the CRISPR/Cas 9 to engineer microbial strains that can efficiently utilize cheap feedstocks to produce succinate. When I am not engaged in research, I enjoy reading, photographing landscapes and scenery, and taking walks.

I am an undergraduate studying food science. My career goals include innovation and new product development of healthier and sustainable foods. When not studying or in the lab, you can find me working out or hanging out with my friends. I enjoy lacrosse and basketball and watching movies.

I am interested in process optimization and creating more sustainable products. My current research projects in the Ujor Lab is focused on modifying the membrane fluidity of Clostridium beijerinckii through metabolic engineering, to enhance butanol tolerance, and ultimately, butanol production by this organism. Outside the lab, I really enjoy sports, I am a big Boston sports fan as that is where I grew up. I also enjoy working out, hanging out with friends, and playing basketball, pickleball and tennis.

Currently, my research project aims to improve the production of 1,2-propanediol by Clostridium tyrobutyricum, mainly through engineering its fermentation pathways. Outside the lab, I enjoy cycling, running, and playing/watching football (soccer)! I also have several music-related hobbies, such as playing the piano and singing in a barbership quartet!