Dr. David W. Reed is a scientist in Idaho National Laboratory’s Bioenergy Feedstock Technologies Department. Dr. Reed has a Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Biochemistry from the University of Idaho. He has 30 years’ experience characterizing and developing extremophilic microorganisms and enzymes for energy related application. He has spent the last decade developing processes for biorecovery of critical minerals, including rare earth elements, from recyclable waste materials. He regularly mentors undergraduate and graduate students. He has co-authored many reports, publications, and patents. He received the INL Lifetime Achievement Award for Inventorship.

Understanding the physiological activities of microorganisms from extreme environments important for solving energy and environmental challenges.