The Biosystems Engineering & Soil Science Department is proud to announce that Dr. Douglas Hayes and Dr. Brian Leib were tenured on July 1. They both now hold the rank of Associate Professor, and we look forward to seeing them continue to make great contributions to the extension, research, and teaching missions of our department.
Doug's interests are in the area of biological process engineering, biocatalysis, bioseparations, and colloids. He has worked with enzymes in nonaqueous media, protein behavior at interfaces, microemulsions, surfactants, lipid chemistry and separations, utilization and processing, and bioconjugate chemistry. His recent research has focused upon the use of water-in-oil microemulsions to separate and isolate biomolecules and the synthesis of polyesters and saccharide esters using lipases. Other recent research endeavors include the use of enzymes in bioconjugate chemistry and the purification of lipids using urea inclusion compounds.
Brian's primary objective is to develop and deliver information for clientele on irrigation system design and management that will increase productivity, reduce chemical inputs, save water, and decrease non-point pollution. Brian has initiated field research and extension projects at UT's regional research and education centers in collaboration with extension specialists from other departments. He has also developed two new irrigation scheduling tools for Tennessee: real-time web-based crop-water use data, and the MOIST water balance program.
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