Brent Peyton

Dr. Brent Peyton is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Montana State University (MSU), serving as Director of the Thermal Biology Institute and the NSF Center for Biofilm Engineering. He holds a B.S. from the University of Florida (1986) and a Ph.D. from MSU (1992). His research focuses on extremophilic bioprocessing, heavy metal biotransformations, and biofilm engineering in natural/engineered systems. He has authored 90+ peer-reviewed publications and holds three environmental biotechnology patents.

Education:

• B.S., University of Florida, 1986
• Ph.D., Montana State University, 1992

Research Interests:

Dr. Peyton's work integrates microbiology with engineering to address environmental challenges. Key areas include:

• Extremophilic microorganisms (thermophiles/alkaliphiles)
• In situ bioremediation of heavy metals
• Biofilm formation and control in industrial systems
• Space applications of biofilm reactors
• Microbial detection of pathogens in thermal environments

Recent Trends in Publications:

Recent work emphasizes:

• Bioremediation efficacy in coal plant groundwater
• Biofilm-mediated corrosion mechanisms
• Microbial surveillance of Naegleria fowleri in hot springs
• Mars-simulated saline seep microbiology
• Climate-resilient bioenergy crops

Awards:

• 2025: Provost's Award for Graduate Research Mentoring
• 2016: College of Engineering Distinguished Professor
• 2016: CSIRO Distinguished Visiting Scientist

Grants & Outreach:

He leads projects funded by the NSF, NASA, and Department of Defense. Engagements include:

• REU Site: Exploring Limits of Life in Extreme Environments
• Expert reviews for Enviromin Inc and Teck Resources
• Advisory roles for Bioremediation Journal and MSU's American Indians in Math/Science programs

Labs & Teams:

His lab collaborates with NASA on spacecraft biofilm control and studies Yellowstone National Park microbial communities. Recent lab highlights include:

• 2024: Detection of Naegleria fowleri in Grand Teton hot springs
• 2023: Development of Mars-simulated seep models
• 2022: Cyanobacteria-enhanced bioenergy crops