He was born and raised in Madison. He did his undergraduate studies (chemistry, molecular biology, philosophy) at UW-Madison, before moving out east to do his PhD studies (biochemistry and physics) at Cornell University. He taught college physics, biochemistry, and cell biology in Upstate NY for several years before returning to Wisconsin in 2008 to take a position at UW-Platteville. His research interests include biodegradable nanoparticles, rapid solvent stripping, and semipermeable membrane formulations. He has more than ten years' experience mentoring undergraduate researchers, and his hobbies include wilderness camping and trail running.