Cara Lubner

Cara Lubner is a Researcher at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in the Biosciences Center, focusing on Bioenergy research. She joined NREL in 2015 as a Scientist III, Biophysical Chemist and transitioned to a Senior Research Associate at the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Institute of the University of Colorado, Boulder in 2018.

• PhD, Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University
• Bachelor, Chemistry, University of Florida

Her research focuses on the fundamental properties of biological electron transfer, with expertise in ultrafast spectroscopy, electron spin resonance, and redox biochemistry. She investigates electron bifurcation and photosynthetic energy transduction, particularly in Cyanobacteria and hydrogenase enzymes.

Recent publications (2025–2022) span electron bifurcation mechanisms, hydrogenase engineering, and photosystem I spectral modulation, reflecting interdisciplinary work in biochemistry, nanotechnology, and biocatalysis.

At NREL, she collaborates on bioenergy projects applying time-resolved optical spectroscopy to complex redox systems. Previous roles include a Research Associate at the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Institute (2014).