Unit: Labs
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Ayushi Kapoor
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Ayushi is a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Ozturk Lab, where her research focuses on membrane processing and the characterization of WPPC. Previously, she was a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Center for Dairy Research (CDR), University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she developed membrane-based processes for lactic acid purification from dairy industry co-products…
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Yu Hasegawa
Researcher II
Yu is a Researcher II in the Ozturk Lab whose work focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the health‑promoting properties of bioactive compounds from whey protein phospholipid concentrate. Yu completed postdoctoral training at the UW-Madison (Bolling Lab) and later worked as a Senior Scientist at the Icahn School of Medicine…
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Kelly Kim
Undergraduate Researcher, Global Health and Pharmacology-Toxicology
Kelly is a sophomore majoring in Global Health and Pharmacology-Toxicology. She’s an undergraduate researcher with a passion for improving health through research, especially in the area of dairy products and their benefits. She joined the Ozturk Lab in spring 2025. In her free time, Kelly loves watching movies and listening…
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Shelby Benker
Undergraduate Researcher, Chemical Engineering
Shelby is an undergraduate researcher studying Chemical Engineering with a certificate of Biology in Engineering. She aspires to work in the food sciences sector of chemical engineering post graduation. She wants to help create and develop healthy, sustainable food products and beverages. She joined the Ozturk Lab in the Spring…
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Tina Zhou
Undergraduate Researcher
Tina is an undergraduate student majoring in Food Science with a certificate in Fermented Food and Beverages. She is interested in food product development promoting human health. She intends to enter a graduate program after graduation with focus on dairy product or microbiology. Tina joined Ozturk Lab in Fall 2024.…
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Luis McDougall
MS Student, Biological Systems Engineering
Luis is a master’s students in the Biological Systems Engineering department, with a dual bachelor’s in biology and Economics with Mathematical Emphasis. He intends to pursue a career in medicine. Luis joined the Ozturk lab in Spring 2024 when he was an undergraduate student. In his free time, Luis enjoys…
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Mitchell Weiss
Undergraduate Researcher, Ujor Lab
I am interested in process optimization and creating more sustainable products. My current research projects in the Ujor Lab is focused on modifying the membrane fluidity of Clostridium beijerinckii through metabolic engineering, to enhance butanol tolerance, and ultimately, butanol production by this organism. Outside the lab, I really enjoy sports,…
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Izzie Tobin
Undergraduate Researcher, Ujor Lab
I’m currently working on a project studying the fermentation of whey permeate into 2,3-butanediol and butanol, renewable chemical and biofuel products, respectively. My work focuses on optimizing the fermentation protocol to maximize yield, exploring how an underutilized byproduct like whey permeate can be transformed into a valuable product. Outside of…
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Kasey O'Dell
Undergraduate Researcher, Ujor Lab
Currently, my research project aims to improve the production of 1,2-propanediol by Clostridium tyrobutyricum, mainly through engineering its fermentation pathways. Outside the lab, I enjoy cycling, running, and playing/watching football (soccer)! I also have several music-related hobbies, such as playing the piano and singing in a barbership quartet!