Michael Dai

Dr. Michael Dai is a researcher at the Queensland Brain Institute (QBI), The University of Queensland. His work focuses on mitochondrial biology, aging mechanisms, and cellular responses to genetic stress. He holds a PhD in Neuroscience (2021) from the University of Queensland, where his thesis explored modifiers of mitochondrial DNA damage. His research integrates genetic, molecular, and computational approaches to understand mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases and aging.

Key contributions include developing the SoMarker tool for genetic marker identification in C. elegans, investigating mitochondrial DNA damage repair pathways, and studying PINK1/parkin roles in mitochondrial quality control—relevant to Parkinson’s disease mechanisms. His work bridges basic science with translational insights into mtDNA-associated disorders.

Publications span high-impact journals like Cell Metabolism, Nature Cell Biology, and PLoS Biology, demonstrating expertise in mitochondrial genetics and aging biology. Collaborations include researchers at UQ and international institutions.