Iris Porat

Iris Porat has a strong background in microbiology and research, with extensive experience in various roles. Iris began their career as an electronic technician in the Israeli Defense Force from 1987 to 1990. Iris then pursued their studies at Ben Gurion University, where they completed their BS, MS, and PhD in Life Science under the supervision of Drs. David M. Chipman and Ze'ev Barak.

Following their education, Porat worked as a Postdoctoral Associate at Georgia State University, where they conducted research on arginine metabolism in Salmonella typhimurium and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Iris then moved on to the University of Georgia, first as a Postdoctoral Associate and later as an Assistant Research Scientist, working under the supervision of Dr. William B. Whitman, focusing on microbiology.

Porat further expanded their research experience at Penn State University as a Research Associate, working with Dr. James G. Ferry. Iris then joined Oak Ridge National Laboratory as a Postdoctoral Research Associate, collaborating with Drs. Steven D. Brown and Anthony Palumbo in the Biosciences Division.

Continuing their career in industry, Porat joined INEOS Bio as a Senior Microbiologist, where they played a crucial role in developing bacterial strains for bio-ethanol production and resistance to high concentrations of ethanol or salt. Iris then worked as a Microbiology Manager at Ecolyse, Inc., performing analysis of microbial communities and developing techniques for isolating sulfate reducing bacteria.

Porat's leadership skills were showcased at GFS-US, where they served as the Director of R&D for the MIC lab, responsible for developing a new green biocide and testing its effects on various bacteria.

Currently, Porat holds the position of Principal Scientist in R&D at Kemira. Their work at Kemira focuses on developing projects centered on antimicrobial biocide effectiveness in wastewater treatment, oil and gas operations, and the pulp and paper industry. Additionally, they lead a research group focused on introducing a new wastewater disinfection technology, KemConnect DEX, to the North American market.

Overall, Iris Porat's work experience demonstrates their expertise in microbiology, research, and development, as well as their ability to lead projects and contribute to innovative solutions in various industries.

Iris Porat obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Life Sciences from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in 1993. Iris then pursued a Master of Science degree in Life Sciences from the same university, graduating in 1995. In 1998, they completed a Master of Business Administration degree in Business also from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. Finally, they earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in 2000.