Ruth McNees

Professional Biography

Research Experience

University of Kentucky,  2014-Present

Isolate, genetically characterize, and determine chemical transformations performed by bacteria during fermentation of known compounds and tobacco to produce flavor compounds of interest within specific biological pathways. Post-doctoral scientist with Dr. Luke Moe, Department of Plant and Soil Sciences

Vanderbilt University, Ph.D. candidate in chemistry, 2008-2014.

Method development for expression of genes associated with the production of secondary metabolites to be purified using multiple chromatographic methods followed by structural elucidation based primarily on 2-D NMR techniques for compound identification. 

Ciba Vision, Lab technician in Stability and R&D, 2006-2008

Primary responsibilities included development of new analytical methods utilizing HPLC, IR, and UV to characterize raw and in-process materials and final products.  Monitored physical and chemical changes of FDA approved and pre-approved products, compiled data, and presented a summary of the stability of the products.

Furman University, 2004

Research Experience for Undergraduates.  Developed efficient methods for the separation of inorganic based enantiomers using capillary electrophoresis employing various buffer additives, with a special focus on sulfated cyclodextrins under the supervision of Dr. John Wheeler.

Teaching Experience

University of Kentucky, 2014-2018

Mentored and trained graduate and undergraduate students in sterile technique and project development. Participated in local outreach programs to inspire elementary, middle, and high school students to participate in STEM programs.

Vanderbilt University, 2008-2013

Teaching Assistant/Laboratory Coordinator. Supervised laboratory sections of organic chemistry courses: maintained safe laboratory environment, dispensed hazardous reagents for undergraduate experiments, graded and corrected reports and exams.

Vanderbilt University, Research Experience for High School Students (REHSS), 2013

Educated students in proper laboratory techniques for microbial isolation and preliminary identification from soil samples collected from a local organic farm; aided in the characterization of soils collected from various crop regions

Vanderbilt University, Research Experience for Undergraduates, 2009

Educated undergraduate students on the methods associated with actinomycete fermentation, compound isolation, and structure elucidation.  Results of of this work were published in 2010.

North Georgia College and State University, 2004-2006