Zoe Hansen, Ph.D., is a postdoctoral researcher in plant pathology at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Hansen earned her doctorate in microbiology and molecular genetics from Michigan State University in 2022. Hansen’s research interests broadly focus on the intricacies of microbial ecology across different systems. She has explored multiple facets of microbial communities in her doctoral and postdoctoral work, ranging from metagenomics analysis of the human gut microbiome to characterizing competitive interactions among soil microbes. Hansen aspires to further investigate and understand the complex interplay between microbes, their host(s) and their environment.

Hansen has been a committed advocate for women in STEM throughout her career. As a graduate student, Hansen held multiple leadership positions for Graduate Women in Science (GWIS) Mid-Michigan and co-facilitated the GWIS National Conference in 2021, as well as the organization’s annual outreach event, Girls Math and Science Day. Now, as a postdoctoral researcher at UMN, Hansen serves as chair for the Outreach Committee of Empowering Women in Science, a group committed to the advancement of women and genders that are historically underrepresented in STEM. Hansen is also involved in multiple initiatives emphasizing inclusive mentorship and teaching practices. Hansen is passionate about improving diversity, inclusion and accessibility of STEM spaces across career levels. Hansen is an ASM member and a member of the ASM Subcommittee on the Status of Women in Microbiology (SSWiM).