Jim Pesavanto working in a laboratory at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Jim Pesavento, a Biology professor and department chair at Saint Mary’s College of California, is at the forefront of innovative research in protein biochemistry, focusing on the microalgae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Pesavento’s work aims to harness algae’s potential as a sustainable biofuel source by studying histones and their role in gene expression control. Pesavento’s impact extends beyond his institution, particularly through his collaborations with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). As a faculty collaborator in the Visiting Faculty Program (VFP) and Berkeley Lab Undergraduate Faculty Fellowship (BLUFF) program at LBNL, he has contributed significantly to cutting-edge research and provided valuable opportunities for students. His partnerships with LBNL’s Workforce Development & Education (WD&E) department have opened doors for students to engage in meaningful research experiences. Moreover, Pesavento has become a resource for other faculty members, sharing his expertise in proposal writing, student mentorship, and research capacity enhancement, exemplifying the cross-disciplinary approach needed to address complex sustainability challenges.
– Written by Lauren Latterell (Student Assistant)
