Environmental Biofilm Microbiology Lab at Iowa State University

Dr. Kaoru Ikuma

Associate Professor

Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering

Interdepartmental Environmental Science Graduate Program

Interdepartmental Microbiology Graduate Program

Iowa State University

Research activities

The overarching goal of the Ikuma lab is to understand the effects and outcomes of environmental pollution on microbial genetic and physiological characteristics with the ultimate aim to improve and expand sustainable and equitable solutions in environmental engineering.

Specifically, our research is focused on the interactions between environmental pollution and microbial biofilms in aquatic systems. Microorganisms are the powerhouse of many environmental processes; however, these microorganisms can be greatly affected by the presence of pollutants, which could result in major alterations in the various physicochemical, biological, and ecological processes. While we know that bacteria primarily exist as biofilms in the environment, our knowledge of the interactions of biofilms with environmental pollutants is still limited. My research lab aims at gaining further understanding of such interactions to improve biological treatment processes as well as to assist in better risk assessments of environmental pollution on ecosystem and public health. My research especially focuses on the microbial aspects of environmental justice and equity.

Interested in joining my lab?

We're always interested in recruiting curious and motivated researchers. Undergrads, grad students, and postdoctoral researchers interested in joining the Ikuma lab should contact Dr. Ikuma directly by email. Please include your CV and a statement of research interests that specifies why you want to work in my lab in your email.

Potential grad students can consider joining my lab through the Civil Engineering graduate program (Environmental Engineering specialization, M.S. or Ph.D.; http://www.ccee.iastate.edu/academics/graduate/graduate-degrees-offered/) or the Interdepartmental Graduate Programs in Microbiology (M.S. or Ph.D.; http://www.micrograd.iastate.edu/how_to_apply) and Environmental Science (M.S. or Ph.D.; https://enscigrad.iastate.edu/admissions/).

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