Michelle Valkanas, Ph.D.
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I am currently an assistant professor at Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest University), formerly California University of Pennsylvania, where I teach Microbiology and Molecular Biology Courses. My research interests are in passive remediation systems built to treat abandoned mine drainage (AMD). Specifically, I focus on the impacts microbial communities have on passive systems. By understanding the biogeochemical cycling occurring in the system we can provide insight on long-term system success and help to improve overall efficiency. I am also interested in understanding how bacterial communities adapt to the rapid changes in water chemistry that occur in passive systems. Most recently my research has been focused on how contaminated environments may lead to an increase in antibiotic resistance genes, with a special interest in multidrug resistance (MDR) efflux pumps.
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California, PA 15419
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