Sonja Salmon

Bio

Dr. Sonja Salmon is a professor in the Wilson College of Textiles at North Carolina State University, where she leads the Textile Biocatalysis Research team in the Department of Textile Engineering, Chemistry and Science. After completing a B.S. degree in Textile Chemistry and Ph.D. in Fiber and Polymer Science from NC State, she worked for 22 years at Novozymes North America, Inc., in research and development roles from Scientist to Senior Innovation Manager, developing new enzyme applications for industrial processes including textiles, household care, pulp and paper, waste treatment, biofuels, specialty applications, and CO₂ capture. Central to her current research and teaching is building insights into the diverse interactions possible between enzymes, polymers and fibers, especially biobased materials, and how these can play important roles in making products and processes more sustainable. She leads the Novo Nordisk Foundation funded Biocatalyst Interactions with Gases (BIG) Collaboration that aims to advance enzyme technology for CO₂ capture, CO₂ conversion and N₂ reduction to ammonia, which are critically important in addressing global challenges.

Area(s) of Expertise

Title: Goals and Progress in the Biocatalyst Interactions with Gases (BIG) Collaboration

Abstract:
The Biocatalyst Interactions with Gases (BIG) Collaboration between North Carolina State University (NCSU) and the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is investigating fundamental gas-enzyme-interface interactions for three life-essential gas conversion reactions: 1) conversion of CO2 to bicarbonate catalyzed by carbonic anhydrase for carbon capture, 2) reduction of CO2 to formate catalyzed by formate dehydrogenase (FDH) for carbon utilization, and 3) reduction of N2 to ammonia catalyzed by nitrogenase, the central reaction in nitrogen fixation. Our goals are to build basic knowledge and technology platforms for gas phase enzyme reactions and to explore the feasibility of enzyme-based processes for gas molecule transformations. Addressing these challenges requires expertise, collaboration and knowledge sharing across many disciplines. We are hosting this Technology Translation Virtual Event to share findings from our team as well as highlight the efforts of distinguished researchers in this field, with the goal of inspiring increased curiosity, networking and support that will advance these technologies. We envision that enhancing biocatalyst interactions with gases by minimizing reaction barriers near immobilized enzyme interfaces will ultimately lead to replacements of critical chemical processes with enzymatic approaches that contribute to global sustainability solutions.