The Team
Principal Investigator
Rodney Tollerson II
I am an Assistant professor in the Department of Biological Science at Auburn University. I started the lab in January 2024. I earned my bachelor’s degree in microbiology at the University of Arizona in 2015 and my PhD in microbiology from The Ohio State University in 2019 working with Dr. Michael Ibba. After my PhD, I did my postdoctoral training in geobiology at the Caltech Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences under the supervision of Dr. Victoria Orphan.
Graduate Students
Blake Lee
I’m Blake Lee and I’m from Birmingham, AL. I did my undergrad here at auburn where I majored in Microbiology. During my PhD, I am interested in studying Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacterium (PGPR) and development of a co-culture seed treatment as a replacement to chemical fertilizers. Outside of the lab, I enjoy the gym and spending time with friends.
Spring 2023 - Present
Liz Conway
I’m Elizabeth Conway and I am from Cincinnati, Ohio. During undergrad I double majored in biology and environmental science. Outside the lab I enjoy hiking and reading! I am interested in studying the regulation of gene expression based on different conditions in microbes and microbial ecology!
Fall 2024 - Present
Lab Technician
Grace Britt
My name is Grace Britt and am from Vero Beach, Florida, so I am particularly interested in wetland environments. I am fascinated by how microbial communities respond to environmental changes, particularly in terms of their adaptability and resilience. Being able to understand these dynamics can provide insights into ecosystem stability, biogeochemical cycles, and the potential for bioremediation.
Undergraduate Students
Abby Simmons
Hi I’m Abby! I’m originally from Atlanta, Georgia, and I’m thoroughly enjoying my time at Auburn working in the Tollerson lab. I’m especially interested in methanogens and how different environmental stressors can affect their rate of translation. My project would encompass freezing ribosomes at their initiation sites to discover cryptic start sites in the RNA. Outside of the lab, I enjoy playing the bass guitar, baking, and going to concerts whenever I can!
Microbiology, '26
Ryan Wilson
Hi, I’m Ryan Wilson, and I’m from Huntsville, Alabama. I’m studying Biomedical Sciences at Auburn University with the goal of attending medical school. I’m fascinated by microorganisms and eager to learn more about their impact on the world around us. Dr. Tollerson’s lab gives me the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and deepen my understanding of the field, with the hope of growing as an individual and contributing to the lab. Outside of academics, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, golfing, and traveling to new places!
Biomedical Sciences, '26
Hannah Sowell
Hi, my name is Hannah and I'm currently studying Genetics with a concentration in Pre-Veterinary sciences. I chose to participate in Dr. Tollerson's research not only because it deeply interested me, but because I wanted to gain hands-on experience in performing experiments as a developing scientist outside of the classroom. I also participate in the AUMB and the Pre-Veterinary Medical Association.
Genetics, '26
Nathan Speake
My name is Nathan Speake, and I am from Alexander City, AL. I double major in Nutrition Science and Music Performance with a pre-medicine focus. Participating in Dr. Tollerson’s research lab will not only allow me to contribute to exciting microbiology developments but also provide the necessary experience to mature academically.