Dr. Romare A.

Dr. Antrobus began his academic training at Lawrence University, where he earned a BA in biochemistry as a Posse Foundation Scholar, graduating with multiple Dean’s Awards for academic excellence. His early laboratory training in biochemistry included investigating the role of the protein angiogenin in cancer and blood vessel growth, which introduced him to rigorous experimental design, molecular analysis techniques, and translational biomedical research. This foundation sparked his interest in how fundamental biological mechanisms can be engineered into real-world therapeutic solutions. Dr. Antrobus further expanded his research experience through the National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates program at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, where he conducted interdisciplinary research integrating bioengineering with material science.

During his graduate training, Dr. Antrobus’ research centered on designing high-performance biomaterials for tissue-engineering applications, including ligament and tendon regeneration, and on sustainable next-generation textile materials. His research has been published in Environmental Science Advances and Nature Communications Engineering, and has been featured in Netflix’s The Future Of and Discovery+’s Curb Your Carbon.

In addition to his academic work, Dr. Antrobus has contributed to translating biomaterials research into commercial ventures, including supporting the development of seaweed-based textile fibers that launched the startup AlgiKnit. He is also the Founder of a biotechnology startup, AceTech, leveraging the power of bacteria to develop biotextiles engineered with natural waterproofing and improved environmental performance to replace PFAS-coated garments.

Dr. Antrobus has mentored students across the high school, undergraduate, and early graduate levels, advising them in research development, abstract and poster preparation, and strengthening their scientific writing and analytical skills. He has worked as a research mentor at Columbia University and as a STEM academic mentor through the Armory College Preparation High School Program. He supports students in translating their ideas into structured research questions, designing experiments, and communicating their findings with clarity and confidence.

Dr. Antrobus’ passion for mentorship is rooted in the impactful guidance he received throughout his own training and his lived experience navigating environments where representation was limited. As an underrepresented scientist and entrepreneur, he has often found himself to be the only person of color in academic and innovation ecosystems. This experience has shaped his commitment to mentoring the next generation of researchers, including those from underrepresented backgrounds, ensuring they have access to the resources, confidence, and strategic guidance needed to thrive.

Dr. Antrobus has experience guiding students in research spanning biochemistry, bioengineering, and biomedical engineering. He invests in understanding each student’s background, interests, and long-term goals to develop research plans tailored to their academic level and aspirations. Dr. Antrobus’ strengths include guiding students through experimental design, critical analysis of scientific literature, data interpretation, and scientific communication. He cultivates a mentoring environment that is structured and adaptable, encouraging students to pursue their curiosity while grounding their work in clear frameworks and tangible next steps. Whether guiding a student through manuscript preparation, study design, or the development of their research question, he ensures each mentee leaves with clarity and confidence.