Carrie Eckert
About Carrie Eckert
Carrie Eckert is the Synthetic Biology Group Lead at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where she has worked since 2021. She has a strong background in molecular biology and metabolic engineering, with extensive research experience in hydrogenase and collaborations with prominent scientists.
Current Work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Carrie Eckert serves as the Synthetic Biology Group Lead at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, a position she has held since 2021. In this role, she leads the Genetic Tools Team for the Center for Bioenergy Innovation. Her research focuses on next-generation metabolic engineering of microbes, particularly for biofuel production. This position is located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where she collaborates with a team of researchers to advance synthetic biology applications.
Previous Experience at NREL
Before her current role, Carrie Eckert worked at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) as a Staff Scientist V from 2008 to 2021. During her 13 years at NREL, she contributed to various projects in renewable energy and sustainable technologies, applying her expertise in synthetic biology to advance research initiatives.
Academic Background and Education
Carrie Eckert earned her Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, where she studied from 2001 to 2006. Prior to that, she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of South Dakota, completing her studies from 1995 to 1999. Additionally, she has held positions at the University of Colorado Boulder as a Research Assistant Professor since 2013 and as a Postdoctoral researcher at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center from 2006 to 2008.
Research Collaborations and Focus Areas
Carrie Eckert collaborates with notable researchers such as Ryan Gill, Adam Arkin, and Chris Voigt. Her research includes adapting genome editing and regulatory circuit tools for non-model microbes. She has conducted significant research on hydrogenase in various bacteria, including Synechocystis, Rubrivivax gelatinosus CBS, and Ralstonia eutropha H16, contributing to advancements in microbial metabolic engineering.
Leadership Roles in Renewable Energy Research
In addition to her research activities, Carrie Eckert has served as Associate and co-Interim Director of the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Institute (RASEI). In this capacity, she has played a role in guiding research initiatives focused on renewable energy and sustainability, further establishing her influence in the field.