Ahjeong Son

Ahjeong Son, assistant professor in Auburn University’s Department of Civil Engineering, has been recognized with the National Science Foundation’s prestigious Faculty Early CAREER Development Program award and a grant of more than $430,000 for her research, “Development of a novel inhibitor-resistant genomic assay in environmental samples.” This recognition speaks directly to the far-reaching impact and contribution of her work in environmental science and engineering. Her research focuses on biosensors and gene quantification techniques for environmental microbiology and also addresses regional environmental issues, such as the Gulf oil spill. 

As part of her CAREER plan, Son will lead a research group to develop an inhibitor-resistant gene quantification method capable of bacteria detection in heterogeneous environmental samples. It will serve as a pivotal element in leveraging in-situ monitoring of pathogenic contaminants to safeguard vital water resources. Son will also continue to mentor and educate future engineers through outreach activities for underprivileged students and international research opportunities for environmental engineering students.

Son received her doctoral degree in civil and environmental engineering from the University of Delaware and performed postdoctoral research in the Department of Land, Air and Water Resources at the University of California-Davis.