4 minutes with… Anna-Marie Davidson, Research Associate/Graphic Artist, NECi

Tell us about your company and it’s role in the Advanced Bioeconomy.

NECi manufactures recombinant enzymes to replace toxic chemicals in the field of analytical chemistry. These enzymes are accurate, reliable, and environmentally benign. We currently offer an enzyme for nitrate quantification and are researching enzymes for quantification of phosphate, glycerol, galactose, and alcohol.

Tell us about your role and what you are focused on in the next 12 months.

I am currently working towards the production of recombinant enzymes for glycerol and galactose quantification in complex mixtures. Currently, there are no quick and easy methods for monitoring glycerol content during biodiesel production. Our goal is to provide this enzyme to small to medium sized producers. This will enable biodiesel producers monitor glycerol content on the spot without the use of harsh chemicals or waiting weeks for results. This will improve the efficiency and productivity of these producers. On the flip-side, I design visual marketing materials for NECi, including brochures, instruction manuals, e-mails, posters, trade-show banners, and more. I believe that a visually aesthetic element can draw attention and intrigue an audience to examine a piece further. This engages readers in a way that pleases the eye as well as the mind.

What do you feel are the most important milestones the industry must achieve in the next 5 years?  

Sustainability, Collaboration, and Policy Change

If you could snap your fingers and change one thing about the Advanced Bioeconomy, what would you change? 

The political barriers that prohibit the advancement of technology. Specifically, the reluctance to collaborate and the desire to out-compete your neighbor.

Of all the reasons that influenced you to join the Advanced Bioeconomy industry, what single reason stands out for you as still being compelling and important to you?  

The scientific advancement of society

Where are you from? 

Northville, MI

What was your undergraduate major in college, and where did you attend? Why did you choose that school and that pathway?

Biomedical Sciences with Minors in Chemistry and The Fine Arts at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI. I really enjoyed the relaxed vibe of Kalamazoo and the west side of Michigan. I pursued my degree in science because it’s intriguing, and my minor in art because I enjoy exploring my right brain.

Who do you consider your mentors – could be personal, business, or just people you have read about and admire. What have you learned from them?

Anna Tippen-A local yoga instructor and friend who always seems to have a smile on her face. She’s currently pursuing her Master’s degree all while teaching multiple yoga classes and serving local micro-brews at the Keweenaw Brewing Company. She’s even found a way to combine the two with her Sunday morning class at the brewery: Yoga for what Ales You.

Chip and Cindy Ransom- Local retirees in their 60’s that live on the organic vegetable farm. Through working for them on the farm, I’ve learned some of the most important things there are to know in life. Helping to provide healthy food to our community is truly an amazing thing. They don’t let age stand in their way of moving around. They can both out-pedal me on a mountain bike and never cease to have a sense of adventure.

Jamie Bourgo- A friend and vegetable farmer who initiated a community project to improve children’s long-term health by teaching kids how to grow, prepare and appreciate natural fruits and vegetables.

What’s the biggest lesson you ever learned during a period of adversity?  

To be appreciative. To be present in every moment, because time spent is ephemeral and fleeting.

What hobbies do you pursue, away from your work in the industry?

Snowboarding, Mountain Biking, Hiking with my dog, Exploring Nature, Sailing, Kayaking, Photography, Painting, Drawing, Strolling the shores of Lake Superior, Camping, Cooking, Yoga, Gardening

What are 3 books you’d want to have with you, if you were stranded on a desert island

Be Here Now by Ram Dass

Buddha’s Brain: The Practical Neuroscience of Happiness by Rick Hanson and Richard Mendius

Dove by Robert Lee Graham

What books or articles are on your reading list right now, or you just completed and really enjoyed?  

Have Fear? Will Travel. by Kathryn Giroux – Rogue Flea WordPress Blog

MOUNT BOHEMIA RHAPSODY ” UPSTARTS & UNDERDOGS by Paddy O’Connell – Teton Gravity Research. Going Up: A tribute to the painful joys of skinning by Jim Harris – The Clymb Stories

What’s your favorite city or place to visit, for a holiday?

Copper Harbor, MI