Rodney Tollerson II

Rodney Tollerson II is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Auburn University, where he leads the Tollerson Lab focusing on genetic and translational regulation in prokaryotes. His research spans microbial metabolism, environmental adaptation, and community dynamics, with applications in climate science and agriculture.

• Postdoctoral Training: California Institute of Technology (2023)
• Ph.D.: The Ohio State University (2019)
• B.S.: University of Arizona (2015)

His research interests include translational regulation, methanogen biology, antibiotic resistance, and microbial responses to environmental and agricultural perturbations. He uses advanced techniques like ribosome profiling and proteomics to study gene-family functions in nutrient cycling and host-associated environments.

The recent publications reveal a strong focus on elongation factor P, ribosome function, and post-transcriptional control in bacteria and archaea. His work bridges molecular genetics with ecosystem-level processes, particularly in methane metabolism and soil microbiomes.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• 1st place undergraduate poster prize at ASM conference (mentored student)

He actively mentors students, including Grace Britt and REU student Ryan Williams. He has secured research independence and conducts outreach, such as the lab’s event at Tuskegee University’s STEM Family Fun Night. His teaching includes Prokaryotic Molecular Genetics (BIOL5260/6260) and Introduction to Molecular Research (HONR 1087).

The Tollerson Lab investigates genetic regulation in methanogens, microbial responses to fertilizers, and inter-microbial detection mechanisms, positioning it at the intersection of molecular biology and environmental microbiology.