Juliana Huizenga
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are common and widespread environmental contaminants that are produced from many daily activities such as burning fuel. My research aims to use microorganisms to clean up sites contaminated with PAHs while also ensuring that the overall toxicity associated with the sites is reduced by the clean up process.
I am constantly amazed with how complex and unique each microorganism I work with is. There is always something new to learn and discover and it keeps the research process energetic and exciting.
I want to contribute to the science that makes low cost, low energy, and easily implemented remediation technologies a reality.
I do not think I would be the scientist I am today if had not been for my Jurassic Park obsession as a young girl. I was struck by the movie's depiction of the power and responsibility that comes with scientific knowledge, and I believe that the movie planted a seed in my mind of how exciting and impactful the scientific world can be (even without dinosaurs).
Research, Government
During time off, I trade in my lab coat for a pair of dance shoes, hiking shoes, or my bass guitar.
Research Project(s):