Alumni Spotlight: James Levi

James (Jamie) Levi graduated from NC State with a Master’s of Microbial Biotechnology (MMB) in 2022. Jamie is now working as an Associate Scientist for Atlis Biosystems.

We reached out to Jamie to find out about his experiences since graduating.

Do you have any news to share about your career or life?

After starting my job in April, I was tasked with developing a new assay for Altis Biosystems. In the last month I recently finished the commercial transfer of my first product at the company, which is extremely exciting! 

What do you enjoy most about your career?

So far, I have enjoyed how spontaneous my job has been. I have been able to work with leaders in the Intestinal Stem Cell field to develop novel products for preclinical drug screening. 

What do you consider your biggest accomplishment in your career?

After becoming fully trained for my job, in under three months, I pioneered the development of an assay that, as I said before, is in the process of commercialization. This assay was estimated to take 6 months to fully develop, but my team and I were able to have it developed and optimized for commercial use in about 3.5 months. I am thankful for my team and the independence my mentors have given me. 

What do you miss most about NCSU?

I miss being able to interact with my peers and hear about their lives on a regular basis.  

Do you have any advice for current M.M.B. students?

Use the two years to find your passion in science, pursue it, and never look back. This program has the capability to prepare you for many industry professions, use your connections and it will lead you where you need to be. 

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy watching horror movies, cooking, and spending time with my dog Stevie!