Michael D Toney

Michael D Toney is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at UC Davis. He received his Ph.D. from UC Berkeley (1990) and B.S. from University of Alabama (1985). His research group investigates enzymatic catalysis with focus on vitamin B6-dependent enzymes.

Research Focus: Uses experimental and computational methods to explore:

• Catalytic rate enhancements and reaction specificity in enzymes
• Stereoelectronic effects in biocatalysis
• Light-activated enzyme mechanisms
• Protein-based nanomaterial design

Publication Trends: Recent work spans structural biology, antiviral protein engineering, and nanomaterial synthesis, demonstrating multidisciplinary approaches to biochemical problems.

Laboratory & Advising: Leads active research group focused on enzyme mechanisms and protein engineering. Encourages undergraduate participation in research projects.