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Amy Pruden, University Distinguished Professor and environmental scientist, delivered Fall 2023 University Commencement Address
Hokie Vision
Dr. Pruden’s research seeks to advance water engineering and agricultural practices through deeper understanding of the microbial communities inhabiting these systems. Her team applies a combination of next-generation DNA sequencing and bioinformatic tools to track targets of interest, including opportunistic pathogens, antibiotic resistance genes, and various functional groups of bacteria.
Emerging contaminants, including pharmaceuticals such as antibiotics, may accumulate in our water resources with largely unknown impacts. In my research, we focus on antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) as the contaminant of interest, bringing in environmental engineering tools to understand their fate and transport in the environment as well as to assess water treatment options.
The students in the Pruden lab are integral to the success of the research. Each student contributes distinct perspectives, technical skills, and intellectual curiosity that collectively advance our scientific mission. Collaboration is a cornerstone of our group’s culture — students readily share knowledge, offer support, and celebrate one another’s achievements.
