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Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering
Hyperthermophile Research Group

News

three photos of Robert Kelly throughout his academic career

Apr 15, 2026

In Memoriam: Robert Kelly

Alcoa professor of chemical engineering and director of the NC State Biotechnology Program, Robert Kelly, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 16, 2026, at the age of 72. He is survived by his wife Maureen; his three children, Elizabeth Kelly, Caitlin Kelly Gaylord (and spouse Ryan), and Michael Kelly (and spouse, Erica); his three grandchildren,…

Jan 14, 2026

Dr. Manesh receives his Ph.D. (July 2025)

Dr. Mohamad Javad Haghighat Manesh defended his Ph.D. in July 2025 and formally graduated in December 2025. He has accepted a job at PG&E in San Francisco, CA.

Apr 13, 2025

RM Kelly receives Charles D. Scott Award from SIMB

RM Kelly was selected to receive the Charles D. Scott Award from the Society for Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology for research contributions in biotechnology for production if fuels and chemicals. The Award will be presented at the 47th Symposium on Biomaterials, Fules and Chemicals (SBFC) in Milwaukee, WI in May, 2025.

Apr 13, 2025

Hyperthermophile Groups goes to Yellowstone National Park (April 1-5, 2025)

The Hyperthermophilic Group (Kati Ford, MJ Manesh, and Shayan Moghaddam) made a sampling trip to Yellowstone National Park to collect samples for Rare Elements research and lignocellulose degrading bacteria. They were assisted by Professor Brent Peyton from Montana State University. Sampling was done under a permit from the National Park Service.

Apr 13, 2025

Dr. Ford presents seminar at Montana State University (March 31, 2025)

Katheryne (Kati) Ford presented a seminar to the Thermal Biology Institute at Montana State University on “How to Grow: Engineering Lignocellulolytic Hyperthermophiles for Bioproduction”.

Apr 13, 2025

Dr. Bing wins JK Ferrell Award (March 17, 2025)

Ryan Bing wins 2024 James K. Ferrell Outstanding Ph.D. Graduate Award from Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at NC State. The Award will be presented at the Spring Departmental Graduation Ceremony.