Timberley Roane, Ph.D., Associate Professor
Research Interests: Environmental Microbiology
Some microorganisms, such as fungi and bacteria, have amazing abilities to withstand chemical toxicities and can, in some cases, detoxify such chemicals. I am interested in determining how these organisms respond to toxic chemical exposure, such as to metals and organic pollutants, in the environment. Understanding microbial responses to these pollutants leads to exciting insights into how these microorganisms can clean-up contaminated sites. Bioaugmentation (the addition of an organism to a contaminated system) with microorganisms is an exciting new arena for innovative research and discovery in the remediation of various types of pollution.
Specific interests in my laboratory include
- how microbial populations respond to chemical stress;
- the mechanisms microorganisms use to resist and detoxify toxic metals;
- the potential use of microorganisms in bioremediation of metal and/or organic contaminated sites; and
- contaminant stability following microbial transformation.
Research in my laboratory combines conventional, molecular and biochemical approaches to studying environmental microbiology, while striving to apply laboratory research findings to real-life field applications.
My commitment to science also involves a commitment to students. My research program actively involves teaching both research and subject matter to students in both laboratory and classrooms settings. I am student-oriented in both the laboratory and the classroom and my goal is help students respond to the emerging needs in environmental science.
Current Projects
- Mechanisms of microbial metal resistance and detoxification
- Efficacy of microbial bioremediation of metal/organic contaminated sites
- Microbial responses to environmental stressors
For Dr. Roane's professional information please see her Curriculum Vitae: Roane Tenure CV 032106.pdf
Education
Postdoctoral Associate, 1999, University of Arizona: Soil, Water and Environmental Science
Ph.D., 1999, University of Arizona: Soil, Water and Environmental Science
M.S., 1994, University of Idaho: Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
B.S., 1991, University of California at Davis: Microbiology
