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Mackenzie Best
Graduate Research And Teaching Assistant at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
Mackenzie Best is a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, where she is currently pursuing a PhD in Geobiology. Her research focuses on cave-forming sulfur-oxidizing bacteria, specifically assessing their potential for bioleaching and bioremediation, as well as their role in nitrogen cycling within sulfidic cave systems. This work involves techniques like enrichment culturing and metagenomic analysis to explore the microorganisms' metabolic capabilities and physiological tolerances, including their responses to varying sulfide sources and pH levels.1
In addition to her current role, Mackenzie has prior experience as a Grade Control Geologist at Compañía Minera Antapaccay in Peru and has worked as a teaching assistant at Middlebury College. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Geology from Middlebury College and a Master of Science in Geochemistry from the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology.1 Mackenzie is also fluent in French and proficient in Spanish, enhancing her ability to work in diverse technical environments.1
