Michael Francis

Michael Francis is a Professor at the T.H. Chan School of Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, and leads the Francis Laboratory. His research focuses on genetic and molecular mechanisms governing neural circuit connectivity and behavior in Caenorhabditis elegans.

• University of Virginia - BA in Psychology
• University of Florida - PhD in Neuroscience
• NIH NRSA fellowships for predoctoral and postdoctoral training

Francis's work explores:

• Genetic pathways regulating synaptic activity and circuit development
• Neuropeptide modulation of motor circuits and behavior
• Ionotropic receptor signaling and its role in neurodegeneration

His recent publications highlight oxidative stress responses, neuropeptide signaling, and synaptic remodeling in C. elegans. Key awards include NIH NRSA fellowships from NIMH and NIDA. He mentors graduate students in neuroscience and biomedical sciences, employing genetic tools, optogenetics, and electrophysiology to study synaptic plasticity and behavior.