Michael Allen

Michael Allen is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Genetics at the University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC), affiliated with the College of Biomedical and Translational Sciences. He holds a PhD in Microbiology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and a BS in Biology from the University of Texas at Arlington. His research focuses on vector-borne diseases and microbiome-host interactions, with projects spanning tick pathogen testing, microbial community dynamics, probiotic development, and forensic applications.

Notable research projects include:

• UNTHSC Team Science - Investigating gestational PCB exposure impacts (2023–present)
• Multicomponent hydrogel for drug-resistant infections (2022–2022)
• Tracking microbiome sources in forensic science (2022–2025)
• Environmental microbiology studies post-Hurricane Harvey

Research interests include tick-borne pathogens, engineered probiotics for PKU, and microbial community assembly. Allen has authored 42 peer-reviewed publications since 2003, with recent work on Lyme disease immunology, hemp retting microbiology, and floodwater contamination. He leads collaborative projects across institutions like the Texas Department of State Health Services and University of Houston-Clear Lake.

Grants and funding have supported studies on forensic microbiology, plant pathogens (Johnsongrass), and biocomposite materials. Allen’s lab also investigates the role of the microbiome in neurological disorders and environmental health crises.

His work bridges basic science and applied research, addressing public health challenges through microbiological innovations.