enhance vehicle diagnostics and customer engagement. Francis attributes his versatility to the strong statistical foundation and mentorship he received at the College of Science, emphasizing the broad applicability of statistical skills across industries. Safeguarding public health from shellfish toxins Micah Rogers (B.S. Biology, ’07) has dedicated her career to preventing shellfish poisoning along the Pacific Northwest coast. After earning her degree from the College of Science, she worked in diverse biological fields, including sea turtle research and wildlife rehabilitation. In 2017, Rogers returned to the region, applying her biology background to monitor harmful algal blooms (HABs) with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Her expertise led to a position as a coastal HAB specialist with the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. Her job includes conducting phytoplankton cell counts and seawater toxin tests to proactively prevent shellfish poisoning, protecting thousands of residents. Rogers emphasizes the importance of acquiring transferable skills — like Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping and statistics — for building a resilient, adaptable career in marine science. Alumnus leads life-saving research at the frontlines Steve Bjornson (Microbiology, ’96) played a pivotal role in developing Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine. As vice president and chief operating officer of Pfizer’s vaccine research and development organization, he led a team working tirelessly — 18hour days, seven days a week — to create a vaccine in record time. When the Phase 3 trial results confirmed the vaccine’s efficacy, Bjornson said he cried tears of joy, calling it one of the most meaningful moments of his career. Reflecting on his journey from Alaska to Oregon State University, he credits his microbiology degree for providing the foundation that enabled him to contribute significantly to global health during a critical time. Initially planning to attend medical school, he pivoted to biopharmaceuticals, drawn by the potential to impact millions. His first job in biomanufacturing set the stage for a career dedicated to global health, where he continues to develop life-saving medicines and vaccines. Alumna applies ROTC and scientific training to regulatory consulting Lia Murty (B.S. ’08, M.S. ’12) leveraged her chemistry background and ROTC experience to become a senior regulatory consultant at Compliance Services International. She specializes in ensuring biologically based products, like pesticides, comply with regulatory standards, bridging the gap between science and regulation. Murty’s journey began with a high school interest in chemistry, leading her to Oregon State University, where she joined ROTC and pursued an immersive chemistry major. Her undergraduate research with Professor Fred Stevens was pivotal, providing early exposure to research and valuable connections. Postgraduation, Murty served as a Navy officer before returning to Oregon State for graduate studies. Murty encourages the next generation of innovators to take risks and embrace challenges, emphasizing that starting is often the most crucial step. “There’s a sense of adventure [in science] and not being satisfied with an answer. You have to go figure it out.” Lia Murty (B.S. ’08, M.S. ’12) (Opposite, L) Steve Stehman’s OSU Statistics mentor had a profound influence on his scientific career. (Opposite, R) Avid traveler Eleanor Ford in Japan. (Left) Steve Bjornson relied on a strong science foundation to support his critical work during COVID. (Above) After OSU, Lia Murty went on to earn a Ph.D. in plant pathology and microbiology from Texas A&M. IMPACT FALL 2025 13
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