Jesse Labbé

Dr. Jesse Labbé, a molecular geneticist and microbiologist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (Biosciences Division), specializes in synthetic biology, systems biology, and plant-microbe interactions. His work bridges biosecurity, energy innovation, and human health priorities through advanced genetic research.

• Key Roles: Director, Biosciences Division (current); Founder & CEO, Sustainomics (applied biotechnology startup)
• Education: Ph.D. in Microbiology and Genetics, University of Lorraine, France

Dr. Labbé’s research focuses on:

• Decoding fungal and bacterial interactions in environmental and medical contexts
• Developing CRISPR-based genome engineering tools for bioenergy crops
• Elucidating molecular mechanisms in mycorrhizal symbiosis and root microbiomes
• Advancing sustainable biotechnology for bioeconomy applications

His recent publications highlight interdisciplinary trends in:

• Fungal specialized metabolites and symbiotic signaling
• Microbial community dynamics in Populus species
• Transposable elements in wood-decay fungi
• Metabolomic and proteomic responses to drought

Dr. Labbé’s collaborations span institutions like the French National Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment (INRAE) and Joint Genome Institute, with emphasis on:

• Training next-generation biotechnology researchers
• Developing biocontrol strategies for sustainable agriculture
• Engineering plant-fungal symbioses for climate resilience