The Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering is proud to recognize Patricia Popescu as an outstanding example of early-career success and impact. A 2018 graduate of the BBE program, Popescu earned both a Bachelor of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, completing both rigorous degrees in just three years. During her time as a student, she balanced multiple part-time roles on campus and completed high-profile internships with NatureWorks, Cargill, and 3M.
Following graduation, Popescu joined NatureWorks as a Research Scientist, where she received several promotions for her contributions to the company’s innovation initiatives. Most recently, she accepted a new position as Senior Capital Project Engineer at BioMADE, a role in which she will play a key part in designing and building a network of 12–15 pilot and demonstration facilities across the United States—advancing the future of bioindustrial manufacturing.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Popescu has been a dedicated ambassador for the BBE department. She has participated in numerous outreach and recruitment efforts, including serving on open house panels and guest-speaking in the BBE 1001 Orientation course, both as a student and as an alumna.
Patricia Popescu exemplifies the purpose of the Early-Career Alumni Award, which honors a graduate of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering (BBE) or Sustainable Systems Management (SSM) who has achieved exceptional early success and shows strong potential to make significant contributions to their field. Award recipients must have received their degree within the past 10 years and demonstrated excellence in one or more of the following areas: Research and development, education and outreach, and management and policy.
Please join us in celebrating Patricia Popescu's remarkable achievements and continued commitment to advancing the mission of the BBE department!