Dr. Rachel Wagner was raised in Richmond, VA. She received her Ph.D. in environmental engineering from Penn State in 2012. She received her B.S. in biology and M.S. in biological systems engineering from Virginia Tech. Dr. Wagner's research interests are in waste management solutions. Her primary research is in bioelectrochemical systems, including microbial fuel cells, which convert waste organic matter to electricity through the metabolic process of microorganisms. She also works on questions of solid waste management. She enjoys teaching and mentoring through research and outreach. Dr. Wagner served in the Peace Corps in Belize from 2004-2006 with her husband Aaron. She works with the Society of Women Engineers at SFU, as well as the Environmental Action Society. Rachel is active with the Lake Glendale Sailing Club, Full Basket Belize, and she loves camping, hiking, reading, and biking with her family. She has two children, one dog, and a garden.