David Micklos

David Micklos serves as Executive Director of the Dolan DNA Learning Center at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, a position he has held since founding the center in 1988. Previously, he directed Public Affairs & Development at CSHL from 1982-1988. His career uniquely bridges biology, journalism, education, and social sciences, with a central focus on democratizing DNA science education for teachers and students worldwide.

His educational background includes:

• D.Sc. Biological Sciences, Honoris causa from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (2009)
• M.A. in Journalism from University of Maryland, College Park (1982)
• B.S. in Biology from Salisbury University (1975)

Micklos's research interests center on making advanced genetic techniques accessible through innovative educational frameworks. He pioneered DNA barcoding methodologies for classroom use and developed cyberinfrastructure platforms like DNA Subway that enable genome analysis for non-experts. His work emphasizes citizen science applications, particularly in urban biodiversity assessment, and focuses on creating course-based undergraduate research experiences that bridge authentic scientific inquiry with educational practice. He has significantly shaped national biotechnology education through NSF-funded initiatives like InnovATEBIO.

His recent publication record reveals a consistent trajectory toward developing accessible tools for DNA analysis and bioinformatics education. The articles demonstrate increasing integration of cloud computing with molecular biology education, creating pathways for students and citizen scientists to engage in authentic genomic research. His work consistently addresses the challenge of translating complex laboratory techniques into classroom-appropriate protocols while maintaining scientific rigor.

Micklos has received significant recognition for his educational contributions:

• Charles A. Dana Award (1990) for his book DNA Science
• Genetics Society of America Elizabeth W. Jones award for excellence in education (2012)

As an educational leader, Micklos has secured substantial NSF funding for biotechnology education initiatives and has trained thousands of teachers in DNA science techniques. His grant-funded projects emphasize collaborative development of educational resources and the creation of national networks for biotechnology education. He has mentored numerous educators and researchers through the DNA Learning Center's programs, fostering a community of practice around DNA science education.

Under Micklos's leadership, the Dolan DNA Learning Center has developed innovative educational platforms including DNA Barcoding, DNA Subway, and involvement in the CyVerse cyberinfrastructure project. His team has created nationally recognized models for science education centers that integrate laboratory research with educational outreach, engaging students, teachers, and citizen scientists in authentic DNA analysis projects across diverse settings from classrooms to urban parks.