Ryan R. Hansen

Ryan R. Hansen is an Associate Professor and Wayne and Barbara Harms Keystone Research Scholar in the Tim Taylor Department of Chemical Engineering at Kansas State University's Carl R. Ice College of Engineering. He directs the Hansen Biointerface Laboratory located in Durland Hall, where he leads research focused on sustainable solutions for food, energy, and water systems.

Education includes:

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from University of Colorado Boulder (2008)
• B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Colorado School of Mines (2001)

His research integrates polymer science, microbiology, and nanotechnology to develop advanced biological materials. Primary investigations include:

• Stimulus-responsive hydrogels for bacterial screening/separation
• Microbial encapsulation using protective hydrogel coatings
• Bioinoculants for soil/plant health enhancement
• Biofunctional interfaces for clean energy and sustainable agriculture

Awards and honors:

• NSF CAREER Award (current)
• K-State Alumni Faculty Excellence Award
• College of Engineering's Outstanding Assistant Professor
• Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award
• Keystone Research Scholar distinction

Research funding comes from National Science Foundation and Department of Energy. He advises graduate students in microbial biotechnology projects and oversees the Hansen Biointerface Lab's interdisciplinary work in nanofabrication and biohybrid systems.