Daehwan Kim

Daehwan Kim is an Associate Professor of Biology and holds the Hodson/Maryland Endowed Chair in Advanced Bioproducts Research and Education at Hood College. His research focuses on biochemical and microbial engineering, particularly in converting agricultural waste into biofuels and bioproducts through fermentation and enzymatic processes.

• Ph.D., Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Purdue University (2017)
• M.S., Biotechnology Engineering, Yonsei University (2010)
• B.S., Biotechnology Engineering, Korea University (2008)

Kim’s work spans lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment, enzymatic catalysis, and sustainable microbial platforms for bioenergy and biomaterials. He has developed innovative fermentation methods using coffee waste and hemp without conventional pretreatment, reducing costs and environmental impact.

Recent research trends include lignocellulose conversion, inhibitor detoxification in biofuel production, and functional food applications of Monascus pigments. His publications emphasize bioprocess optimization and computational modeling of fermentation systems.

• Top Reviewer 2019, Global Peer Review Awards
• National Ethanol Conference Scholarship (2017)
• BIOPRO World Talent Campus (2016)
• Corn Utilization and Technology Conference Poster Award (2016)

Kim mentors undergraduate students, including Specht, J., and collaborates with academic and commercial labs. His projects integrate environmental sustainability with industrial biotechnology, aligning with Hood College’s focus on applied research and education.