
Meet the UWO Beckman Scholars
Aedon Langkau
2024-2025
Major: Chemistry – Biomolecular Science
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Sabrina Mueller-Spitz
Faculty Mentor Department: Biology
Project: Extracellular Proteome Characterization of Mycolicibacterium species RJGII-135
Aedon is pursuing a major in Chemistry, with an emphasis on Biomolecular Science. He is a member of Dr. Mueller-Spitz’s lab in the department of Biology, where he studies proteins secreted by Mycolicibacterium species RJGII-135 (M135). His research focuses on predicting which proteins encoded in the genome of M135 are likely to be secreted through genomic analysis, and studying the quantity and activity of secreted proteins in the laboratory. The goal of his project is to identify extracellular proteins that possess the capability to degrade Polyethylene Terephthalate, a common component of plastic-waste. After obtaining his undergraduate degree, Aedon plans to pursue a PhD in Biochemistry and a career in research. In his free time, he enjoys playing the guitar and working on vehicles
Diana Koehler
2024-2025
Major: Biology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Greg Kleinheinz
Faculty Mentor Department: Engineering & Engineering Technology
Project: Investigating the Presence and Composition of Microplastics in Nearshore Environments of Lake Michigan
Diana is a first-generation college student majoring in biology and minoring in forensic investigation. Diana’s love for experimental learning began as a child on the beaches of Lake Michigan. Diana spends her time at the Environmental Research and Innovation Center working with her mentor Dr. Greg Kleinheinz. For her Beckman Scholars project, Diana investigates the presence and composition of microplastics in nearshore environments of Lake Michigan using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. With plastic’s status as an emerging contaminant, her study aims to inform future mitigation efforts to preserve our Great Lakes. She hopes to continue her education to the doctoral level in freshwater science. Diana’s favorite things include traveling, reading, and vintage clothing.