Michael E. Martin
About Michael E. Martin
Michael E. Martin is a Principal Scientist at LanzaTech, where he has worked since 2014, focusing on low carbon renewable fuels and chemical production. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Biology & Society and a Master's degree in Biological & Environmental Engineering from Cornell University.
Work at LanzaTech
Michael E. Martin has served as Principal Scientist at LanzaTech since 2014. He is based in Chicago, Illinois, where he has contributed to various projects aimed at advancing sustainable chemical production. His responsibilities include advising on pilot and commercial fermentation operations for low carbon renewable fuels and chemicals. Martin has also played a key role in the on-site commissioning and successful startup of LanzaTech's first commercial gas fermentation facility. He has managed projects focused on creating sustainable supply chains, such as the CO2-to-Polypropylene initiative, which integrates electrochemical and biochemical processes.
Education and Expertise
Michael E. Martin holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology & Society with a minor in Business (Applied Economics and Management) from Cornell University, where he graduated cum laude in 2008. He furthered his education at Cornell, obtaining a Master’s Degree in Biological & Environmental Engineering from 2014. Additionally, he participated in the Global Environments Summer Academy at the Rachel Carson Center for Environment and Society in Munich, Germany, in 2011. His academic background equips him with a strong foundation in both scientific and economic principles relevant to his work in sustainable technologies.
Background
Before joining LanzaTech, Michael E. Martin worked as a Graduate Research Assistant at Cornell University from 2012 to 2014. In this role, he focused on research that contributed to his expertise in environmental engineering and sustainability. Prior to his academic career, he served as a Litigation Legal Assistant at Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP in Manhattan from 2008 to 2010. This diverse background has provided him with a unique perspective on the intersection of science, technology, and legal frameworks in the field of sustainable development.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Michael E. Martin has managed significant projects, including a multi-million-dollar ARPA-E grant aimed at developing a Carbon-Negative Chemical Production Platform. He has led the New Applications group at LanzaTech, which focuses on innovative fermentation processes and technology integrations. His work includes conducting technoeconomic analyses to evaluate the value propositions of various technologies and their cost drivers. Martin has also managed Global Fermentation Advisors in India and China, enhancing LanzaTech's global outreach and operational capabilities.