Max Simon

About Max Simon

Welcome to my profile! I\'m Max Simon, a dedicated scientist with a rich background in biotechnology, committed to innovation, continuous improvement, and ethical practice. My career centers around transforming scientific concepts into sustainable solutions. Diverse Background: My academic journey began in biomedical engineering at the University at Buffalo, where I graduated magna cum laude. This foundation sparked my fascination with biology’s transformative potential. During my Ph.D. at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, I focused on natural product biosynthesis, discovering new pathways and enzymatic functions. This multidisciplinary approach now drives my work as a Scientist at LanzaTech, where I lead strain engineering for sustainable molecule production, achieving a 90-fold productivity boost through advanced genetic engineering. Commitment to Improvement: Continuous improvement is fundamental to my work. Whether managing a $3.4 million project or innovating genetic strategies, I strive for excellence. My approach combines systematic methods with creativity, believing that small advances lead to breakthroughs. As a mentor, I encourage knowledge-sharing, guiding interns through advanced techniques, which is essential for evolving our industry and meeting future challenges. Personal Ethics: Integrity is the core of my professional philosophy. As the Environmental Health and Safety representative at LanzaTech, I prioritize safety and process integrity, devising strategies to mitigate risks. My outreach efforts foster transparency and education, discussing the societal implications of genetic editing and biotechnology, building trust between science and the public. Personal Insights: Away from work, I am an avid learner, exploring science’s role in solving societal issues. I value integrity, curiosity, and collaboration, which guide my endeavors both professionally and personally. Inspired by science’s potential to address real-world challenges, I’m committed to a sustainable and equitable future. Connect with Me: I welcome connections with those interested in science and sustainability, whether for collaborations, shared interests, or engaging discussions. Let\'s explore transformative possibilities in biotechnology and ethics together!

Experience

1. Scientist

   Lanzatech

   Jul 2022 — Present · Chicago, IL, US

Education

• University at Buffalo

  Bachelor of Science (BS)

• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)