Dr. Benjamin Hall
Assistant Professor of Cellular and Molecular Biology
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TEACHES IN THE FOLLOWING PROGRAM(S)
Biology
Biography
My scientific journey began with a strong interest in marine biology and conservation, which was heavily influenced by growing up near the coast in southern California. While I thoroughly enjoyed learning about these subjects during my undergraduate career at the University of Miami, it became apparent that I was much more interested in the molecular workings of cells. It is amazing to me that all of the complexities of life originate from the interactions of specific molecules, and these molecules have no brains to "tell" them what to do. I then pursued a Ph.D. in Genetics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, working in Tim Donohue's lab to engineer bacteria to convert renewable plant materials into fuels or other chemicals that we normally derive from fossil fuels. During my time at UW-Madison, I took advantage of many opportunities to learn best practices for teaching in higher education settings, so students can expect frequent active learning opportunities in my classrooms and many chances to interact directly with me.
I believe having a growth mindset is one of the most powerful tools in education (see "Mindset" by Carol Dweck). I know that all students can be successful in my classes, and it is my job to help you be successful. You can count on me to support you and push you to be the best student you can be.
Outside of the classroom, I'm a big supporter of my wife's dogs (@churro.and.deja), I like playing indoor and outdoor volleyball, and I play various video games.
Education
Ph.D. in Genetics, University of Wisconsin-Madison
M.S. in Genetics, University of Wisconsin-Madison
B.S. in Marine Science, Biology, and Biochemistry, University of Miami
Areas of Specialization
- Bacterial metabolism
- Microbial biofuel production
- Protein biochemistry
Scholarly and Professional Achievements
WISCIENCE Scientific Teaching Fellow
Delta Certificate in Research, Teaching, and Learning
Publications
Hall, A. N., Hall, B. W., Kinney, K. J., Olsen, G. G., Banta, A. B., Noguera, D. R., ... & Donohue, T. J. (2024). Tools for genetic engineering and gene expression control in Novosphingobium aromaticivorans and Rhodobacter sphaeroides. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, e00348-24.
Hall, B. W., Kontur, W. S., Neri, J. C., Gille, D. M., Noguera, D. R., & Donohue, T. J. (2023). Production of carotenoids from aromatics and pretreated lignocellulosic biomass by Novosphingobium aromaticivorans. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 89(12), e01268-23.
Hall, B. W., Bingman, C. A., Fox, B. G., Noguera, D. R., & Donohue, T. J. (2023). A broad specificity β-propeller enzyme from Rhodopseudomonas palustris that hydrolyzes many lactones including γ-valerolactone. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 299(1).
Honors and Awards
2024 UW-Madison Department of Genetics Broader Impact Award
2024 UW-Madison Department of Bacteriology Sigrid Leirmo Memorial Award
2023 GLBRC Outreach and Service Award