Christine Foreman

Christine Foreman is a Professor in the Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering and Associate Dean for Student Success at Montana State University (MSU), affiliated with the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering and the Center for Biofilm Engineering. Her research focuses on microbial ecology in icy environments, particularly carbon flux dynamics, biofilm behavior, and dissolved organic matter processing in glaciers, lakes, and streams. She leads interdisciplinary projects funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), NASA, and the Department of Energy (DOE), exploring Antarctic and Arctic ecosystems.

Her work integrates limnology, molecular biology, and environmental engineering to understand microbial roles in global carbon cycles. Key collaborations include NASA’s Mars analog research for subsurface life detection and planetary exploration. She advises numerous graduate and undergraduate students, emphasizing mentorship in STEM fields, particularly for women.

Foreman’s lab group has pioneered studies on glacier biofilms, brinicle formation, and the impact of microbial communities on ice melt. Notable outcomes include discoveries about biofilm contributions to glacial systems and the development of microgravity biofilm reactors for space applications. Her team’s research is disseminated through high-impact publications and public outreach initiatives.