Congratulations to Dr. Roy Kim on His New Appointment at UAlberta! 

Q: What have your past research interests been, and what do you hope to explore in the future? 

Roy: My research has focused on environmental microbiology and microbiome engineering for waste biomanufacturing. Moving forward, I hope to leverage this experience to develop carbon-neutral and even carbon-negative bioprocesses that can contribute to a more sustainable circular carbon economy. 

Q: Could you walk us through your research journey, from your undergraduate or PhD days to postdoc, then to landing your current assistant professorship? How long were you at BioZone? 

Roy: I started my research journey in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, where I focused on organic waste treatment and anaerobic digestion. However, I became increasingly motivated by the fact that conventional waste treatment rapidly converts most of the carbon in waste into CO₂; even methane is eventually burned into CO₂ for energy. While this is effective for waste treatment, I felt it wasn't enough to build a truly sustainable society. That realization led me to pursue my PhD research on converting organic waste into valuable platform chemicals, particularly medium-chain fatty acids. Although I made good progress, I also realized that advancing these bioprocesses requires a much deeper understanding of microbiology. That motivated me to join BioZone as a postdoc. During my four and a half years at BioZone, I was able to strengthen my understanding of microbial physiology and microbiome engineering. Now, as a new professor, my goal is to develop bioprocesses that can make a meaningful contribution to a circular carbon economy. 

Q: How did your mentors or the community culture at BioZone influence the kind of lab culture you want to build in your new role? 

Roy: I really appreciated how BioZone created an environment where people with different backgrounds, interests, and perspectives could naturally collaborate and learn from one another. I also remember Professor Elizabeth Edwards telling me to "be yourself." That simple advice gave me confidence during faculty interviews and continues to guide me in my career. Those are definitely two things I'd like to bring into my own lab. 

Q: What advice would you give to current post-docs or graduate students aiming to build their careers in science and research? 

Roy: I would say that all of your hard work will eventually pay off, even if it doesn't always feel that way. Science can be challenging, and it's easy to compare yourself with others, but trust yourself, be patient, and be kind to yourself. Those things matter just as much as working hard. 

Q: What are some things you will miss from BioZone and Toronto? 

Roy: Definitely the people. At the end of the day, it's the people you meet and the relationships you build that make a place special. I'll really miss all the interactions, collaborations, and friendships I've made here. 

From everyone at BioZone, congratulations to Dr. Roy Kim! We’re proud of your accomplishment and grateful for the friendship you’ve shared with us. We’ll miss you and wish you all the best in this next chapter. 

To contact Dr. Roy Kim, email rbk@ualberta.ca. 

Follow his research through Google Scholar and learn more about the ongoing work of the Lawson Lab. 

We look forward to following Roy’s research and celebrating his accomplishments as he begins this exciting new chapter at the University of Alberta.