Michelle is a plant cell biologist by training, with 15 years’ research experience in peptide-receptor signaling.
Michelle received her Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina, where she worked with a team to dissect the genetics of flower development and discover a trio of receptors that control the release of cell wall degrading enzymes. During her postdoc at the University of Missouri, Michelle turned her attention to the plant immune system, and the spatial regulation of peptide-receptor signaling required for pathogen resistance.
At Elemental Enzymes, Michelle leads a research team focused on novel peptide and natural biochemical solutions for protecting plants from disease and abiotic stress. Michelle’s areas of interest span across peptide discovery, translational field research, and regulatory testing to ensure product safety and efficacy.