By Andi Anderson
The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) has announced the appointment of Stephen M. Techtmann to a five-year term as the Engineering Entrepreneurship Professor in the Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering (FABE).
His appointment, effective August 15, 2025, through August 15, 2030, is pending approval by the Ohio State Board of Trustees.
Techtmann brings a diverse background in environmental microbiology, systems biology, and computational biology to the role. He is recognized for his ability to merge scientific discovery with entrepreneurship, preparing students to turn research into solutions that support Ohio’s environment, economy, and communities.
“Dr. Techtmann’s expertise in microbial community engineering, coupled with his enthusiasm for discovery-based learning, makes him an outstanding choice for this position,” said Cathann A. Kress, Ohio State vice president for agricultural administration and CFAES dean.
Before joining Ohio State, Techtmann served as associate professor of environmental microbiology and associate director of the Great Lakes Research Center at Michigan Technological University.
He also directed Michigan Tech’s Bachelor of Science in Computational Biology program. He holds a PhD in molecular and cell biology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and a BS in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
His research focuses on microbial community behavior, aiming to design systems that improve environmental quality, strengthen ecosystems, and promote sustainable food and material production.
By combining systems biology with omics approaches, his work advances contaminant remediation and bio-based innovation.
The Engineering Entrepreneurship Professorship was established in 2022 through an anonymous donor. Its purpose is to promote entrepreneurial education by helping students learn how discoveries move from research to commercialization. The role emphasizes mentorship, industry partnerships, and start-up strategies.
Through this position, Techtmann will foster experiential learning that prepares both graduate and undergraduate students to commercialize research, develop start-ups, and connect with industry leaders, ensuring that Ohio State students remain at the forefront of innovation.
Photo Credit: ohio-state-university
Categories: Ohio, General