Dr. Audie Thompson | Synthetic Fibers | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at US Army Corps of Engineer Research and Development Center, United States

Profiles:

• Scopus Profile
• Orcid Profile
• Google Scholar Profile

🌟 Current Position

Dr. Audie K. Thompson is currently a Research Biologist (2022 – present) within the Sustainable Water Infrastructure Materials Research (SWIMR) team. In this role, Dr. Thompson leads projects aimed at advancing the field of water treatment, particularly focusing on cutting-edge technologies for environmental protection. Her work extends to proposal writing, manuscript preparation, and training technicians and interns in molecular techniques and analytical chemistry. She explores innovative solutions for lanthanide adsorption, graphene utilization, and membrane-based concentration technologies for PFAS destruction and harmful algal bloom management. Moreover, she contributes to outreach efforts, coordinating ERDC’s STEM programs, fostering interest in science among future generations.

📚 Publication Achievements

As a prolific scientist, Dr. Thompson has made significant contributions to scientific literature. She has published papers in chemical engineering, environmental science, and biocatalysis, with a special focus on using metal particles for antifouling coatings and developing biocatalysts for degrading harmful algal toxins. Her expertise in molecular biology has led to the creation of enzymes for environmental applications and nanomaterials for medical use. Dr. Thompson has also contributed extensively to conferences and journals, serving as an Associate Consulting Editor for iScience (Elsevier), where she coordinates peer reviews and helps recruit innovative articles for publication.

🔬 Ongoing Research

Dr. Thompson is actively involved in several research projects, including lanthanide adsorption and recovery using Bacillus subtilis spores and bacteriophages. Her research explores the application of graphene for water purification and membrane-based technologies to concentrate and destroy PFAS—a group of hazardous chemicals found in many water sources. In collaboration with institutions like Alcorn State, Dr. Thompson investigates methods to combat harmful algal blooms (HABs) by developing composite materials with a focus on sustainability and environmental resilience.

🔍Research Interests

Dr. Thompson’s research interests are deeply rooted in environmental engineering, biocatalysis, and water treatment technologies. Her expertise lies in creating innovative solutions for bioremediation, using engineered enzymes and nanoparticles to degrade harmful environmental pollutants like microcystin. She is also keen on advancing the field of membrane technology, focusing on anti-biofouling membranes and their potential applications in both environmental and biomedical fields.

🎓 Academic Background

Dr. Thompson holds an extensive academic career that includes experience as an Assistant Professor at the University of Arkansas (2018-2022), where she held the prestigious Robert E. Babcock Endowed Professorship. Her work in this role spanned engineering research on biocatalysis, nanotechnology, and water treatment. Before that, she served as a Research Assistant Professor at Prairie View A&M University (2016-2018), contributing to the development of novel membrane technologies and leading multiple student-focused research programs. Dr. Thompson also completed postdoctoral training in chemical engineering, where she honed her skills in bioseparation techniques and membrane technology.

🏅 Scholarships and Awards

Dr. Thompson’s outstanding work has earned her numerous accolades, including the Women of Color Special Recognition Award (2024), Outstanding Teaching Award from the Department of Chemical Engineering (2021), and Best In-Practice Paper Award from the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) in 2018. She was recognized for her role in fostering STEM education, receiving the Outstanding STEM Faculty Award at PVAMU in 2018. Dr. Thompson’s contributions to chemical engineering and STEM outreach have been widely acknowledged through various travel awards and fellowships, such as the Janice Lumpkin Travel Award at the AIChE Annual Conference (2014) and the SREB Scholar Fellowship (2004-2010).

🧬 Bioinformatics and Technology Integration

Throughout her career, Dr. Thompson has integrated bioinformatics into her research projects. She applies molecular biology techniques such as protein purification and enzyme engineering to develop biocatalysts for environmental and biomedical applications. Her focus on bioinformatics also includes analyzing molecular pathways involved in environmental remediation and using computational tools to optimize biocatalytic processes.

👥 Professional Associations

Dr. Thompson is an active member of multiple professional organizations, including the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) and the Society of Biological Engineering. She has also served as a member of the advisory board for the Membrane Science, Engineering, and Technology (MAST) Center from 2022-2024, contributing her expertise to the advancement of membrane technology for environmental applications.

🛠️ Training & Workshops

Dr. Thompson has participated in numerous workshops and training programs, both as a learner and as a trainer. She has trained technicians and students in advanced molecular techniques and instrumentation, such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Additionally, she has been involved in organizing training programs aimed at high school and undergraduate students through REU/REM programs, encouraging young minds to explore the STEM fields.

🗣️ Oral Presentations

Dr. Thompson has delivered oral presentations at various national and international conferences. These presentations have covered her cutting-edge research on antifouling membrane technologies, biocatalytic degradation of environmental toxins, and water purification strategies. Her dynamic speaking style and ability to convey complex scientific concepts to both technical and general audiences have made her a sought-after speaker in the scientific community.

🎯 Tasks Completed as a Researcher

As a leading researcher, Dr. Thompson has completed tasks ranging from designing and managing research projects to mentoring students and securing funding for large-scale studies. Her ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage research projects that address critical environmental challenges demonstrates her capacity for both technical expertise and leadership.

🏆 Success Factors

Dr. Thompson’s success as a researcher can be attributed to her innovative thinking, collaborative approach, and dedication to solving real-world problems. She has successfully secured research funding from prestigious organizations like the National Science Foundation and the Arkansas Water Resources Center. Her commitment to STEM education and outreach, particularly through programs like Girls Accelerating and Learning in STEM (G.A.L.S), highlights her passion for empowering future generations of scientists.

📄 Publications & Laboratory Experience

Dr. Thompson’s laboratory experience is extensive, covering a wide range of experimental techniques in molecular biology, membrane technology, and nanomaterials. She has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and book chapters, contributing to the advancement of environmental engineering, biotechnology, and chemical engineering. Her work continues to inspire the scientific community and drive progress in sustainable solutions for water treatment and environmental protection. 

📖Publications: