John Sheehan has over 20 years’ of experience in the field of chemical and biochemical engineering.  He has served as an analyst and project manager at the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) since 1991.  During his tenure at NREL, Sheehan has led research on the production and use of biodiesel and ethanol.  In the past six years, Sheehan has authored groundbreaking life cycle assessment studies related to biodiesel and ethanol technology.  His 1998 study of biodiesel represents the first comprehensive life cycle evaluation of soybeans as a source of biodiesel used in urban buses.  His latest life cycle study, published this year, is an evaluation of the sustainability of using agricultural residues as a feedstock for fuel ethanol production.  This study merges state-of-the art soil carbon modeling with life cycle analysis to provide an unprecedented perspective on soil health, in addition to more traditional environmental measures of sustainability.  From 2002 to 2005, John also led strategic planning activities for the Department of Energy’s Biomass Program.  In October 2005, John joined the newly formed Strategic Energy Analysis Center at NREL, where he supports the Office of Planning, Budget and Analysis within DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.

Prior to coming to NREL, John worked as a biochemical engineer at W.R. Grace and Company and Merck Pharmaceutical.  He holds a B.S. and an M.S. degree in chemical and biochemical engineering from the University of Pennsylvania and Lehigh University, respectively.

August 1-3
UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center
Tifton, Georgia