This seminar will delve into my colorful career path, with a particular focus on the interests that propelled me from one step to the next and the key differences I’ve observed in each industry. I will also cover what I wish I had known about industry when I was a graduate student. For example, what job titles should I be looking for? What are the pros and cons of a rotation program? How do I get a foot in the door? My goal is for the seminar to provide you with practical insight that will help you figure out your next step and some inspiration for what may come after that.

Bio: Lakshmi holds a BS in Chemical Engineering from Texas A&M University and PhD in Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering from Cornell University. Her doctoral research focused on host factors involved in the Ebolavirus membrane fusion mechanism. Her industry experience with BASF includes research on surfactants for bioprocessing, new business development for novel enzyme markets, project management for mosquito control technologies, and business analysis for enzymes used in biofuel production. She currently leads the marketing team for BASF | Nunhems vegetable seeds in the US/Canada.