Ashley Ohstrom:
'Sourdough Scientist'
About Me
I am a Dual-Title Ph.D. Candidate researching sourdough microbiomes, blending my passion for fermentation, microbiology, and biotechnology. My work explores how sourdough microbial communities influence food quality, nutrition, and stability, aiming to uncover microbial secrets that can shape the future of food.
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Outside the lab, I bring my love for fermentation to life by baking sourdough bread, experimenting with pickled creations, and exploring new culinary techniques. Whether in the kitchen or at the bench, I’m captivated by the microbes that create the flavors, textures, and qualities of the foods we enjoy.
Education
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Ph.D. Candidate in Food Science & Microbiome Sciences, Penn State (Anticipated Fall 2026)
Dissertation: From Starter to Slice: Characterizing Sourdough Microbiomes and Their Impact on Bread Quality and Nutrition
Advisors: Dr. Josephine Wee & Dr. Jasna Kovac
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B.S. in Food Science, Penn State (December 2022)
Research: Evaluation of Kluyveromyces spp. for Conversion of Lactose in different types of Whey from Dairy Processing Waste into Ethanol
Advisor: Dr. Josephine Wee
Experience
I’ve had the chance to explore science from many angles—academia, industry, and outreach. My journey has taken me from optimizing microbiome products as a Product Development Intern at QIAGEN to transforming dairy waste into biofuels during my undergraduate research, and now, diving deep into sourdough microbiomes to enhance bread quality as part of my PhD studies.
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Along the way, I’ve enjoyed teaching undergraduate food microbiology and chemistry labs, leading food mycology workshops, and mentoring students through STEM outreach programs. I’ve also gained hands-on industry experience as a brewing intern and bakery assistant, which has sharpened my technical and communication skills while bridging science with real-world applications.
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These experiences have fueled my passion for mentorship, education, and creating innovative, sustainable food solutions that bring science and creativity together.
