“We need to learn all of our life,” says the Director of NRRI’s Chemical Extractives Program, Pavel Krasutsky. And though he is well-versed in a long list of chemistry, synthesis, chemical engineering, organic reactions, stereochemistry and more (whew!), Krasutsky still wants to learn more about microbiology and the mechanisms of anti-cancer, and anti-HIV bioactivity.
Krasutsky has been at NRRI for 12 years, leading research that has developed the largest patent portfolio in the University of Minnesota system. One of his best experiences at NRRI has been his role in the creation of NaturNorth Technologies, a partnership that worked to bring birch extractives to market.
And while bureaucracy and cronyism bore him, Krasutsky remains passionate about new discoveries. If he could he says he’d change the world by eliminating polluting trucks, and describes himself as "agreeable, but I don't like stupidity.”
Pavel and his wife, Olga, have a 37-year-old son, Alex (Chemist), and a 33-year-old daughter, Sasha (Artist). He enjoys traveling, fishing, swimming, ping-pong, canoeing, picking wild mushrooms, poetry, science and backyard activities.
Pavel’s Favorites: