Hometown: Iowa City, Iowa

Studies: PhD Student, Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, College of Engineering

Carson Baldes' passion for innovation began with a childhood curiosity to build, modify, and improve the world around him. Whether creating new toys from recycled materials or finding clever solutions to everyday challenges, he has always been motivated by the satisfaction of solving practical problems in creative ways. Now a Ph.D. student in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering at the University of Iowa, Carson applies that same mindset to his research, developing new approaches to photopolymerization and bio-sourced plastics while continually improving laboratory processes. From designing custom equipment to streamlining experimental methods, he enjoys creating simple, effective solutions that make research more efficient and reliable. Through the Iowa Innovation Leadership Fellowship, Carson hopes to strengthen his ability to identify opportunities for practical innovation and collaborate with others who share a passion for creative problem-solving. He envisions a career where curiosity, ingenuity, and thoughtful design lead to meaningful improvements in research, industry, and everyday life.