Perry Peralta

Dr. Perry Peralta is an Associate Professor in the Department of Forest Biomaterials at North Carolina State University (NC State), serving as Undergraduate Coordinator for the Sustainable Materials & Technology program. He holds a Ph.D. from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and teaches courses in Wood Physical Properties, Wood Mechanics, and Statistical Process Control. His research focuses on genetically modified tree species, non-woven forest biomaterials, and wood composites, with emphasis on transgenic aspen and loblolly pine. He has been awarded the 2003 NC State Outstanding Teacher Award and is a member of honor societies including Phi Kappa Phi and professional organizations like the Forest Products Society.

Key grants include a USDA-funded study to develop sustainable materials programs for underrepresented women, a project evaluating fique fiber commercialization, and investigations into genetically engineered wood properties. His work bridges biotechnology and engineering, addressing challenges in material science, forest productivity, and renewable energy. Dr. Peralta has secured over $1M in research funding across projects spanning 2004-2022, focusing on CLT systems, transgenic plant biomechanics, and wood processing innovations.

His research interests include: anatomical/chemical analysis of transgenic trees, viscoelastic properties of modified wood, and sustainable construction materials. He has authored over 10 peer-reviewed articles on topics ranging from lignin biochemistry to CLT structural performance, demonstrating interdisciplinary expertise in forestry, engineering, and biotechnology.