معرفی
Tracy J. Benson, Ph.D., is the Interim Dean of the College of Engineering and a Full Professor in the Dan F. Smith Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Lamar University, where she holds the Jack Gill Endowed Chair. She has held academic roles from Assistant Professor (2009) to Full Professor (2022) and served as Department Chair since 2022. Her expertise spans catalysis, CO₂ conversion, and biofuel development.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Mississippi State University (2008)
- M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Mississippi State University (2003)
- B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Mississippi State University (2000)
Research Interests: Dr. Benson focuses on minimizing industrial waste through catalytic processes, particularly lipid-based biofuels and CO₂ conversion using photocatalysts and reaction engineering. Her work addresses energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, leveraging nanomaterials and advanced separation technologies.
Grants & Awards:
- DOE CarbonSafe Project ($99,999), Co-PI (2017-2018)
- DOE GoMCarb Project ($306,246), PI (2018-2023)
- Jack Gill Distinguished Faculty Fellowship (2017-2020)
- Best Speaker Award at 2015 AIChE Southwest Conference
Teaching & Mentorship: Dr. Benson teaches courses in mass transfer, thermodynamics, and carbon capture. She has mentored numerous graduate and undergraduate students in research projects, emphasizing hands-on laboratory experiences and industrial collaboration.
