Jason Helgren, Graduate Research Assistant

Hello!  My name is Jason Helgren and I'm a second year graduate student working under Dr. Doug Reinemann.  I will earn a masters degree in Biological Systems Engineering in May 2004.  I have been working in the Milking Lab since graduating with a BS in mechanical engineering, also from UW, in May 2002.

 My research involves developing a milk quality biosensor, primarily for use with automatic milking systems.  I'm investigating a number of approaches, including using ATP bioluminescence and assessing physical properties of milk.  I also conducted an extensive analysis of milk quality from farms using automatic milking; the results of that study were presented at the 2003 ASAE international meeting in Las Vegas.  I have also assisted with stray voltage testing and other projects around the lab. 

 In my free time I enjoy working outdoors at my family's cabin, camping, hiking, horseback riding, and spending time with my friends.  The picture shown above was taken while backpacking in Yosemite National Park in California.