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Michael Hyman

Professor, Director of Microbiology Graduate Programs

Department of Plant and Microbial Biology

Thomas Hall 4545

Bio

The research in this laboratory focuses on the enzymology, pathways and physiology of microorganisms that degrade environmental contaminants. The organisms we study are primarily hydrocarbon-oxidizing strains that degrade compounds such as trichloroethylene (TCE), methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) and 1,4-dioxane (14D). The approaches used in this laboratory range from the isolation and characterization of novel strains through to genomic and proteomic analyses of individual strains and microbial communities. Many of these approaches make use of stable isotopes. Our goal is to understand the mechanisms utilized by naturally occurring microorganisms to degrade contaminants and to use this information to help develop appropriate treatment strategies that maximize the activities of these microorganisms in contaminated environments.

Education

B.S. Botany University College, University of London, UK 1980

Ph.D. Biochemistry University of Bristol, UK 1985

MBA Oregan State University 2001

Area(s) of Expertise

Bioremediation, Microbial Physiology, Enzymology, Environmental Microbiology

Publications

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Groups