David Ramotowski is originally from Alexandria, Virginia. He obtained his undergraduate degree in Environmental Science from Virginia Tech, where he first became interested in and involved with soil microbiology research that led him to obtain a master’s degree in Soil Science from North Carolina State University. His research at NC State focused on the effects of using nitrogen stabilizers on the soil microbial community, learning many of the same techniques that he uses in his research today.  Now studying for a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Iowa, his research focuses on using bacteria to clean up toxic chemicals in sediments including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). As a trainee in the Iowa Superfund Research Program, he is passionate about how his research can improve public health and equity by protecting people in vulnerable communities from health problems caused by being exposed to airborne PCBs emitted from nearby contaminated sediments. Outside of his studies, David enjoys visiting museums and other attractions in and around Iowa, going to the gym, riding bikes, and playing video games.