The Biosciences Area is using science to solve energy, environmental, health, and biomanufacturing challenges. From early-career scientists to operations and support staff, it takes a diverse and dynamic team to make this type of science happen. Behind the Breakthroughs is a profile series that showcases the people who support our mission.
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Berkeley Kauffman, Helix Surfer
A longtime fishing and surfing enthusiast, Berkeley Kauffman pursued his love for marine science in school and later embarked on a path in biochemistry. Now, he works on the JGI’s Micro-scale Applications group, helping their international users learn more about which microbial species are present and active in their environmental samples.
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Suzanne Baker, Brain Wave Fathomer
According to Suzanne Baker, her path to the MBIB team has been a “weird journey” punctuated with influential mentors and serendipitously timed advancements in the field. Now, after nearly 20 years with Berkeley Lab, she maintains a regular midday break at the nearby lap pool, swearing that these water workouts help her stay focused and…
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Deepanwita Banerjee, Multi-faceted Modeler
Deepanwita Banerjee learned the value of reusing things at an early age. This perspective continues to influence her life: from her DIY dollhouse project to her research that’s recycling genes to build more sustainable products.
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Pier Matisse Roach, Event Entrepreneur
Pier Matisse Roach grew up around musical royalty. After playing a minor role in launching Queen B’s career, she transitioned to coaching a Nobel laureate at Berkeley Lab. As an administrator in the Biosciences Area Operations Office, she works to bring that red carpet feel to everything that she does.
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Julio Corral, Shepherd of Stuff
As the Property and Distribution Supervisor for the Integrative Genomics Building (IGB), Julio Corral is responsible for keeping track of physical items in the building and equipment that’s been sent out to employees working from home. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he was reporting for work in-person, masked and ready for whatever challenges the day held.
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Agustin Avila Sakar, Cryo-EM Trailblazer
Agustin Avila Sakar has spent nearly his entire career learning about cryo-EM technology. Now, he’s tasked with planning the cryo-EM facility in BioEPIC and understanding how it could help further the tenant groups’ breakthrough research.
