Meet the Team
Discover an elite team of award-winning mentors, world-renowned researchers and industry experts
Faculty
The MCS faculty team includes world-renowned scientists actively shaping the field of microbiology. They mentor students, run state-of-the-art labs, publish leading research and design coursework that integrates modern technology with hands-on learning. Students work closely with faculty to develop experimental skills, engage in collaborative projects and prepare for careers built for discovery.
BIO
Dr. Ahrens studies developmental origins of health and disease, investigating microbial, genetic and molecular factors. An active investigator in large, prospective cohorts, she leverages multi-omic datasets for biomarker discovery and predictive modeling to inform clinical practice and advocacy. She has growing interest in OneHealth.
BIO
As Assistant Professor of Space Biology at the Space Life Science Laboratory, Nils' research comprises the rational engineering of microbial metabolism to increase the carbon-efficiency of biochemical pathways for assimilation of single-carbon compounds and the conversion thereof into advanced biomaterials.
BIO
Dr. Bacusmo is a Lecturer in the Department of Microbiology & Cell Science specializing in General Microbiology, Bioinformatics and International Studies. She aims to provide an immersive learning environment that fosters critical thinking, encourages active student participation and empowers students to continually pursue excellence in their chosen disciplines.
Valerie de Crecy-Lagard
Distinguished Professor and Associate Chair
352-392-9416
vcrecy@ufl.edu | Publications
Jamie Foster
Assistant Director Astraeus Space Institute and Professor
321-525-1047
jfoster@ufl.edu | Publications
BIO
The Passalacqua lab (a.k.a. the Laboratory of Nucleic Acids) focuses on the discovery and structural characterization of functional nucleic acids (RNA, DNA and modified nucleic acids) using bioinformatic, biochemical, biophysical and structural biology methods. Current research topics include non-coding RNAs and DNAs involved in gene regulation, host-pathogen/microbe interactions, genome stability, and origins and evolution of life in the universe.
Leandro Dias Teixeira
Lecturer and Academic Advisor
(352)-392-8350
leandroteixeira@ufl.edu | Publications
Nian Wang
Mr. and Mrs. J. R. (Rip) Graves Eminent Scholar Endowed Chair
863-596-8828
nianwang@ufl.edu | Publications
