- General Microbiology
- Basic Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology and DNA Methods
All Faculty & Staff
valkanas@pennwest.edu
MIchelle Valkanas, PhD
- Assistant Professor
- Biology
- Biology, Earth and Environmental Sciences
How to Reach me
Phone724-938-5998
About Me
Biography and Research Interests
Dr. Michelle Valkanas received her Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Duquesne University with a concentration in bacterial genetics. Her training focused on bioremediation of abandoned coal mine drainage. Her current research focuses on bacterial adaptations in extreme environments, including metal resistance, antibiotic resistance, and the identification of molecular markers for contaminated water. As a native to Pittsburgh, PA, Dr. Valkanas has deep roots in the community where she has partnered with Phipps Conservatory, the Carnegie Library, and other non-profits to provide free and accessible informal science education to the local community. In addition to her community work, she is a member of several professional organizations including the American Society for Microbiology, American Society of Reclamation Sciences, Geological Society of America, and American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Courses
Student Research Projects
- Past and current student research projects include:
- Exploration of how bacteria adapt in extreme environments with a focus on bacterial efflux pumps
- Investigation of how bacteria can be used to remediate abandoned mine drainage
- Molecular characterization of bacteria isolated from abandoned mine drainage
- Antibiotic resistance in contaminated environments
- Plasmid mediated antibiotic resistance
- Screening for novel antibiotics in soil in collaboration with Tiny Earth
-
Service Learning Projects
-
- Advisor of Women in Science Club
- Lead the microbiology exhibit at Phipps Conservatory’s Annual BioBlitz
- Led a Summer Science Communication Fellowship that researched COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Pennsylvania
- Co-developed a traveling genetics exhibit to be hosted at libraries across the United States that seeks to promote a greater understanding of real-world genetics knowledge
-
Education
-
- Ph.D. in Biological Sciences, Duquesne University
- B.S. in Biology, Duquesne University