Michael Graves

Michael Graves is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Science at the Kennedy College of Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Lowell. His research focuses on molecular biology and virology, with specialized expertise in chlorella viruses that infect algae. He holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics and Virology from Oregon State University (1992) and a B.S. in Biology from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln (1986).

Research Focus

Dr. Graves investigates chlorella viruses distributed globally, characterized by large genomes encoding unique proteins like glycosylation enzymes. His work spans viral genomics, host-pathogen interactions, and viral biochemistry, with emphasis on mechanisms independent of host cellular machinery. Research extends to applications in algal bioreactor technology and environmental virology.

Publication Trends

His publications emphasize viral genome sequencing (e.g., ATCV-1, MT325, FR483), functional analysis of viral genes, and interdisciplinary studies linking virology with neuroscience. Recent work explores viral glycosylation pathways, translational regulation, and neuroprotective biochemical mechanisms under oxidative stress.

Awards

• Teaching Appreciation Award (2008), Student Government Association, UMass Lowell
• Teaching Excellence Award (2005), Department of Biological Sciences, UMass Lowell
• Phi Beta Kappa (1986), University of Nebraska

Grants and Contracts

Principal Investigator for multiple projects including:

• Algal Virus Genomics (NSF Microbial Genome Sequencing, 2003)
• Chlorella spp. Genome Sequencing (DOE Joint Genome Institute)
• Microeukaryote Diversity in the Gulf of Maine (Census of Marine Sciences)
• Algae Photobioreactor Evaluations (2011, 2012)
• Protein-Protein Interactions in Infected Algae (UMass Lowell Seed Funding)

Laboratory

Leads research on chlorella virus genetics, genomics, and host interaction mechanisms at UMass Lowell.