Profile

Karolien Denef

Colorado State University

Contact Details

Colorado State University

Bio

I am the Director of the Analytical Resources Core (ARC) at Colorado State University (CSU), overseeing a large multi-disciplinary shared-use instrumentation facility supported by 16 staff scientists. Our core provides researchers and students with access to over 40 high end analytical tools and expert scientific support across various disciplines including molecular, materials, surface analyses, omics, and imaging. Since 2012, I've led operational and strategic initiatives, focusing on research services, training, education, fundraising, and collaborative efforts. My background in biological engineering informs my deep understanding of soil carbon cycling, sequestration mechanisms, and land use and climate change impacts. I've transitioned from soil carbon research to core facility management, starting at the CSU NREL EcoCore analytical facility (supporting ecosystem sciences) and expanding into the Central Instrument Facility (CIF) in CSU's Department of Chemistry. In 2020, I led the merger and centralization of CIF and two other CSU core facilities into the Analytical Resources Core under the CSU Office of the Vice President for Research, prioritizing uniformity, efficiency, and team culture. Beyond work, I enjoy travel, running, skiing, yoga, spending time with family, and indulging in literature and which book to buy next.