Michelle GibbsView profile
Academic
Michelle Gibbs is an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Auburn University, where she leads the Gibbs Lab focused on molecular microbiology and environmental adaptation in microbes. Her work bridges research and undergraduate education, emphasizing hands-on training and curriculum development. Education: Postdoc - UCLA (2023) Postdoc - NICHD, NIH (2021) Ph.D. - The Ohio State University (2020) B.S. - Miami University (OH) (2014) Her research centers on how microorganisms regulate gene expression and ribosome function in response to environmental changes such as nutrient and metal availability. She investigates mechanisms at both transcriptional and translational levels, particularly focusing on ribosome biogenesis and RNA processing. Her lab actively engages undergraduate students in cutting-edge biochemical and genetic research. The recent publications reflect a strong trajectory in RNA biology, translational control, and ribosomal assembly, with work published in top journals like PNAS and Cell Reports . Themes include splicing regulation, mRNA decay, and the role of conserved GTPases in ribosomal subunit formation, highlighting a deep integration of genetics, biochemistry, and systems-level analysis. Scientific Awards: No awards listed in the provided text. Michelle Gibbs is actively involved in mentoring undergraduate researchers, as seen in the regular updates on lab members joining and graduating. She teaches BIOL 4101 (Cell Biology Lab) and is committed to expanding CURE (Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience) programs. Her lab, located in the Rouse Life Sciences Building, focuses on microbial adaptation using molecular, genetic, and biochemical approaches to understand survival strategies in changing environments.









