Biotech Career Profiles

Nelson Prieto, Ph.D.

Detergent/Textile Technical Service
Novozymes Inc.
Franklinton, NC

 

Nelson Prieto, Group Leader,
prepares a trial using an
industrial washing machine.

Back in the time of Babylon (2800 BC), inscriptions in clay cylinders made reference to soap made from fats and ashes. Today's detergents have come a long way; they incorporate technological breakthroughs from fields such as chemistry, biotechnology, and engineering to provide consumers with the "ultimate clean." I find it fascinating how one can apply knowledge, in my case chemical science, to advance a field or application and improve life. The quest for knowledge and curiosity is what led me to choose science as my major.

I attended undergraduate school at Catholic University of Puerto Rico. I assisted with research through a minority grant. With my work in research and the encouragement of my professors, I decided to pursue a Ph.D. After completing my Ph.D. at Texas A&M University, I use my chemistry background in the field of detergents. I apply my colloid/surface science knowledge and experience towards formulating detergents and cleaners of all sorts. I worked at Shell Chemical Company, where I had very good mentors who worked in the area of surfactants, detergents, and engine coolants.

Today, I work for Novozymes North America as Group Leader. I find new uses for enzymes in detergent and textile applications and provide customer support. Enzymes hydrolyze (the act of decomposition of a chemical compound by reaction with water) the components of stains, degrading them and making stain removal more efficient than by just using other detergent ingredients alone. Not only do we need to find the best way to formulate ingredients into the detergent, but we also test them at the bench and in the market. This involves solid science and a great deal of common sense with a dash of business knowledge. I find that strong fundamentals help me apply knowledge to various areas, and a well-rounded liberal arts background helps me deal effectively with many non-scientific issues found in workplace. I think people with diverse training in the physical sciences and engineering can make a contribution to the growth of knowledge in the detergents area.

My advice is to be curious, persistent, and always set goals. There are many grants and opportunities that will allow you to pursue a career of your choice. The ability to play an active role in creating new developments provides an intellectual challenge and an opportunity to satisfy any sense of curiosity. Strive to learn from everything you do.