Michael N. Boddy

Michael N. Boddy is an Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI). He specializes in studying DNA repair mechanisms and genomic stability using the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe as a model system. His research focuses on the interplay between SUMOylation, ubiquitination, and DNA damage response pathways, particularly involving STUbLs (SUMO-targeted ubiquitin ligases) and the Smc5-Smc6 complex. Boddy's work has identified novel proteins like RNF4 and Rad60 that mediate genome stability through molecular mimicry and crosstalk between post-translational modification systems.

Education:

• Ph.D., King's College, University of London & Cancer Research UK (1996)

Professional Experience:

• Associate Professor, Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB), Scripps Research (2013–present)
• Assistant Professor, Molecular Biology, Scripps Research (2002–2007)
• Research Associate, Molecular Biology, Scripps Research (1997–2002)

Key Research Themes:

• STUbL-mediated ubiquitination of SUMO-modified proteins
• Role of Smc5-Smc6 in chromosomal stability and DNA repair
• Molecular mechanisms of genome instability in cancer
• Structural and functional analysis of Rad60 SUMO-like domains

Awards & Recognition:

• Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Scholar Award (2014)
• NIH Study Section memberships (ZRG1 GGG-R, MGB)
• EMBO Editorial Board (2010)

Lab & Collaborations:

• Hosts high school STEM students for laboratory training
• Collaborates with John Tainer (TSRI) on structural biology projects
• Funded by NIH and private foundations