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Dong, One of 31 Researchers, Hailed for His Work in Biochemistry and Fermentation Chemistry   

Among the many universities across the state of Illinois, Jie Dong, PhD, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s associate professor in the Department of Chemistry, and fermentation scientist at the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center (NERC) at SIUE, is one of 31 “2024 Researchers to Know,” according to the Illinois Science & Technology Coalition (ISTC). 

“Researchers to Know” is the ISTC’s annual list that highlights the groundbreaking research being done on Illinois’ campuses and provides a detailed look at some of the researchers that are driving innovation in the state. 

Dong works on multiple projects with private companies to promote bioprocess and biomanufacturer research at SIUE. Since 2021, he has received more than $1.2 million in federal grants and has helped secure research contracts from the industry. 

He has established ongoing collaborations with multiple universities and national labs, including The Ohio State University (Dr. Shang-Tian Yang), Washington University in St. Louis (Dr. Chong Zu), University of Cincinnati (Dr. Maobing Tu), Berkeley National Lab (Dr. Chang Dou) and more. 

Dong has received awards as a PI or co-PI from various granting agencies, including the Department of Energy, National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Agriculture, various private industry partners, and internal research funding opportunities. He has also authored and co-authored publications found in 14 peer-reviewed journal articles. 

“We are thrilled to share this year’s ‘Researchers to Know’ list, which highlights the remarkable talent and groundbreaking work of Illinois’ academic scientific community,” said ISTC’s CEO Colleen D. Egan. “These individuals exemplify the innovation and dedication that drive our state’s leadership in science and technology.” 

“By recognizing their contributions, we aim to inspire collaboration, fuel further advancements, and underscore the critical role that research plays in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges,” continued Egan. “Congratulations to all the researchers who made this year’s list – your work not only enriches our understanding but also paves the way for a brighter, more innovative future.” 

This year’s group of researchers come from 10 different institutions and includes those working to:

• Advance biotechnology
• Improve sustainability practices through design and engineering
• Explore mental health challenges and improve solution equity
• Use advanced data, such as AI and quantum computing, to pioneer analytics
• Push the boundaries of physics and material science

View a complete list of the 31 researchers here. 

The Illinois Science & Technology Coalition is a member-driven non-profit, nonpartisan organization that expands economic opportunity in the state through support for innovation and entrepreneurship. ISTC serves as a convener, catalyst, and champion for Illinois’ innovation economy, delivering measurable impact and positioning the state as a national innovation leader. ISTC’s Education team focuses on STEM education, connecting companies with classrooms to better prepare the next generation of problem solvers. For more information, visit ISTCoalition.org.  

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Jie Dong, PhD, SIUE associate professor in the Department of Chemistry and fermentation scientist at NERC at SIUE, is on Illinois Science & Technology Coalition’s list of “Researchers to Know.