 (1).png "Stephen Techtmann Named Engineering Entrepreneurship Professor At CFAES")
Bonnie Johnson
September 03, 2025
Media Article The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) has announced the appointment of Stephen M. Techtmann as the Engineering Entrepreneurship Professor in the Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering (FABE). His five-year term will run from August 15, 2025, to August 15, 2030, pending approval by the Ohio State Board of Trustees.
Techtmann brings an interdisciplinary background in environmental microbiology, systems biology, and computational biology. His appointment reflects a strong commitment to advancing innovation and discovery-based learning for students at Ohio State.
“Dr. Techtmann’s expertise in microbial community engineering, coupled with his enthusiasm for discovery-based learning, makes him an outstanding choice for this position,” said Cathann A. Kress, Ohio State vice president for agricultural administration and CFAES dean. “His work aligns closely with our mission to prepare students to translate research into real-world solutions that benefit Ohio’s environment, economy and communities.”
Prior to joining CFAES, Techtmann served as associate director of the Great Lakes Research Center and as associate professor of environmental microbiology at Michigan Technological University. He also directed the Bachelor of Science in Computational Biology program in Michigan Tech’s Department of Biological Sciences.
Techtmann earned his PhD in molecular and cell biology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and a BS in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
His research focuses on understanding microbial community behavior to design microbial systems that improve environmental quality and support sustainable production of food and materials. By integrating omics and systems biology, his work advances contaminant remediation, ecosystem resilience, and bio-based innovation.
The Engineering Entrepreneurship Professorship, created in 2022 through donor support, was designed to foster entrepreneurial education by linking academic discovery with commercialization opportunities. The role emphasizes experiential learning, industry partnerships, and startup development to prepare students for leadership in agriculture and related fields.
Through this professorship, Techtmann will provide students with practical opportunities to engage in innovation, entrepreneurship, and applied research, bridging the gap between discovery and real-world solutions.
Photo by: cfaes.osu.edu
