Rylie McDonell

Rylie McDonell is a biochemist with a specialization in bacterial systems. Recent focus’s include bacterial proteins for biologics in medicine and symbiotic relationships between agricultural plant species. Rylie obtained her bachelor's degree in Biochemistry from the University of St. Thomas, MN, and is working towards her Ph.D. in Nebraska, Lincoln. Her past work includes metagenomic analysis of wastewater bacteria, bacterial protein engineering, and biological drug development. Presently, Rylie has the opportunity to consult with MIRCA and the University of Nebraska, Lincoln under the advisement of Dr. Schachtman. This exciting collaboration focuses on rhizosphere microbiome interactions in maize cultivation and microbial symbiosis. Together, we hope to advance sustainable agricultural practices and microbial understanding in plant health. In the future, Rylie hopes to obtain her Ph.D. in biological sciences or biochemical related fields, to learn the skills to discover and characterize the ways bacterial species and proteins can improve modern life.