Austin holds a PhD in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering from the University of Iowa. Starting in 2015, he conducted research in electrochemical engineering innovation under Dr. Syed Mubeen, focusing on the conversion of negative value feedstock into positive value chemicals and fuels. In the Fall of 2022, Austin was selected as a member of the inaugural Iowa Innovation Leadership Fellows Program through the Office of Innovation. Additionally, he has served as an Adjunct Faculty member in the Chemical and Biochemical Engineering department at the University of Iowa.

Austin serves as the Innovation Coordinator for Protostudios and UI Ventures. At Protostudios, Austin leverages his engineering and research expertise to support education, training, and the management of equipment, students, and projects. He is excited to help Protostudios' clients bring their innovative ideas to life. In his role at UI Ventures, Austin is assisting with research and space planning for the proposed Medical Innovation Hub.