Arthur Ragauskas is an authority in bioenergy.

His research is important to uncovering ways to convert biomass to biofuels, biopower, and biomaterials. Specifically, his work focuses on converting plant matter such as lignocellulose, found in the cell walls of energy crops, into biofuels. He also works to uncover applications of bio-based chemicals and materials for use in areas ranging from health care to packing material.

Ragauskas is based in UT’s Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, with a complementary appointment in the UT Institute of Agriculture’s Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries.

He serves in the US Energy and Environmental Sciences Directorate, Biosciences Division, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and as a member of the US Department of Energy’s BioEnergy Science Center (BESC).