Brady Steffen
M.S. Student
Fordyce,NE
Summary
Focused Lab Technician with proven track record of success and surpassing expectations in laboratories. I’ve completed many classes and labs within the subject of biology including microbiology, techniques in molecular biology, molecular and microbial biology, and genetics and molecular biology. I am the VP of the microbiology club at SDSU. I have many achievements academically including multiple semesters on the Dean’s list.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Teaching Assistant
South Dakota State University
08.2024 - Current
- Instructed undergraduate students in microbiology/biotech lab techniques
- Trained students on experimental protocols, safety procedures, and data analysis
- Provided feedback and guidance to improve technical ability
Laboratory Technician
SoDak Labs, Inc.
09.2020 - 05.2024
- Conducted analytical testing including ELISA, PCR, isozyme, and sterile/fertile sample analysis
- Determined accurate ELISA trait-purity results for transgenic DNA samples
- Maintained laboratory equipment and ensured compliance with quality standards
- Trained new laboratory personnel in procedures and safety protocols
Field Research Intern
Bayer
05.2022 - 08.2022
- Managed agricultural research plots including corn, soybeans, and wheat
- Assisted with sustainability-focused agricultural research projects
- Collected and recorded data on plant health, disease, and field performance
Education
Master of Science - Biological Sciences
South Dakota State University
Brookings05-2026
Undergraduate - Biotechnology
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD03-2026
Skills
- Techniques: PCR, ELISA, chromatography, fermentation analysis
- Microbiology: Aseptic technique, microbial culturing, microscopy
- Laboratory Operations: Equipment maintenance, reagent prep, QA/QC
- Leadership & Training: Staff training, student mentorship, lab safety instruction
Timeline
Teaching Assistant
South Dakota State University
08.2024 - Current
Field Research Intern
Bayer
05.2022 - 08.2022
Laboratory Technician
SoDak Labs, Inc.
09.2020 - 05.2024
Undergraduate - Biotechnology
South Dakota State University
Master of Science - Biological Sciences
South Dakota State University
Publications
• Khadka B, Steffen BW, Thapa S, Karki B. Optimizing Feedstock Valorization Through Fungal Co-Fermentation of Thin Stillage and Soybean Hulls. Waste and Biomass Valorization. 2025.
• Berg K, Follett D, Jackson A, et al. Upland Switchgrass Cultivars Have Similar Bioethanol Production Profile under Separate Hydrolysis and Fermentation: A Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) in Biofuel Production. RURALS: Review of Undergraduate Research in Agricultural and Life Sciences. 2025. (Includes Steffen B)
Presentations
- Steffen BW, Caffe M, Sehgal S, Nanjundaswamy A. Valorization of Oatmeal and Wheat Through Blakeslea trispora Fermentation to Produce β-Carotene Enriched Animal Feed. ASM North Central Branch Meeting. Mankato, MN. October 3, 2024. (Poster)
- Steffen BW, Caffe M, Sehgal S, Nanjundaswamy A. BioValor: Bioprocessing for Valorization of Small Grains as Enriched Animal Feed. Gordon Research Seminar and Conference – Carotenoids. Ventura, CA. January 5–10, 2025. (Poster)
- Steffen BW, Mandyam K, Caffe M, Sehgal S, Nanjundaswamy A. Optimization of β-Carotene Production in Wheat and Oats via Fungal Fermentation. Day of Scholars. Brookings, SD. March 31, 2026. (Oral Presentation)
Research Experience
Graduate Research Assistant
South Dakota State University — Brookings, SD
Aug 2024 – Present
- Optimized fungal fermentation processes for valorization of small grains and agricultural byproducts
- Investigated β-carotene production using Blakeslea trispora for development of enriched animal feed
- Applied Design of Experiments (DoE) to improve β-carotene yield
- Performed chemical and analytical assays to quantify carotenoid production
- Analyzed experimental data to identify trends and optimize bioprocessing conditions
Industrial Microbiology Researcher (REU Program)
South Dakota State University — Brookings, SD
May 2023 – Dec 2024
- Designed and conducted experiments using industrial microorganisms to optimize fermentation processes
- Evaluated underutilized agricultural substrates for bioprocessing applications
- Analyzed experimental data to identify patterns and improve process efficiency