Anthony Hay

Anthony Hay serves as Associate Professor of Microbiology and Director of Undergraduate Studies in Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), with additional affiliation at the Carl Sagan Institute (CSI). His research program investigates human impacts on environmental microbes through integrated approaches in microbial ecology, physiology, and genomics.

His academic credentials include:

• Doctorate from University of California (1998)
• Bachelor of Science from Brigham Young University (1994)

Hay's research examines microbial responses to anthropogenic stressors across diverse environments, with particular focus on the human milk microbiome, metal resistance mechanisms, and biodegradation pathways for aromatic pollutants. His work bridges fundamental microbial physiology with applications in bioremediation and human health, notably exploring connections between environmental chemicals, gut ecology, and metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes through genomic characterization of bacterial metabolic potential.

Publication analysis reveals consistent investigation of heavy metal interactions (copper, mercury, cadmium) and organic pollutant degradation (styrene, aromatic compounds), with recurring emphasis on biofilm-mediated protection mechanisms and bacterial adaptation strategies in environmental matrices. His research demonstrates methodological integration of genomics, physiology, and advanced imaging techniques like X-ray fluorescence microscopy.

As Director of Undergraduate Studies, Hay mentors students through courses including BIOMI 1400 (Antibiotics), BIOMI 3210 (Gut Microbiome), and independent research programs (BIOG 4990), fostering hands-on genomic and physiological research in environmental microbiology. His lab provides structured training in microbial isolation, genomic analysis, and environmental sampling techniques.

The Hay Lab maintains active research programs examining microbial community dynamics in soil, water, and human-associated environments, with current projects investigating collection kit handling effects on human milk microbiome composition and bacterial metabolic adaptations to environmental contaminants using genomic approaches.