Nathan Roberts, Ph.D. was born in a humble, Christ-centered home in the village of Castle Bruce. Nathan is the first University graduate of his family and the first Ph.D. graduate of his extended family.Throughout his academic career, excellence amidst all odds, was ingrained in him by his faith, parents, and educators. His innate desire for knowledge and the homespun values instilled in him have been the driving force for Nathan to ultimately achieve his Ph.D. in chemical engineering.
When asked about his accomplishments, Nathan is quick to mention his continuous desire is to be a godly role model so that his family, peers, and the generations after him will believe they are capable of success as well.Nathan was high school valedictorian and subsequently continued his studies at the Dominica State College before pursuing his bachelor’s degree at the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa, FL.
While working his way through college, with the help of loans and his parental support, he was involved with various organizations and served in different roles (Membership chair, Treasurer, President) within the USF chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers. Coming from the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean”—with lush green forests and untouched beauty—he has a keen interest in environmental sustainability, which led him to become involved with undergraduate research where he investigated the use of waste greenhouse gases from landfills that can be ultimately converted to fuels.
As an undergraduate researcher, Nathan won multiple awards including Excellence in Undergraduate Research.
In 2015, Nathan moved to Auburn University to pursue his doctoral degree in chemical engineering. His research examined the development of a new microbial technology for improving the wastewater treatment process, resulting in mitigation of water and air pollution. While at Auburn University, he held different leadership positions in the AU chapter of the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers.
As vice president of this organization, he assisted with increasing the scholastic engagement of black graduate students as well as the visibility of the organization on Auburn’s Campus. Due to his academic and extracurricular engagement, Nathan has received both academic and leadership awards. He accredits his wife and daughter’s undying love and support for getting him through the difficult times in graduate school and can enumerate a vast number of family, friends, and mentors who were tremendous contributors toward his success.
Nathan has an immense desire to inspire and support young people and continues to encourage those around him to strive for excellence.
Congratulations to Dr. Nathan Roberts
