Michael Zeitz

Dr. Michael Zeitz is a Research Assistant Professor at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion (VTC), where he conducts research within the Smyth Lab. His work focuses on the role of cis-acting RNA elements in gene regulation and their impact on protein translation, particularly in the context of cardiac disease and intercellular communication.

His research interests lie at the intersection of molecular biology and cardiovascular pathophysiology. Specifically, he investigates how pathological alterations in RNA regulatory elements contribute to disease mechanisms in the heart. This work has implications for understanding gene expression control and developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting RNA-based regulatory pathways.

Dr. Zeitz received his Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology and his Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Prior to joining Virginia Tech, he was a Postdoctoral Fellow and later a Research Associate II at Stanford University School of Medicine, where he gained extensive experience in molecular and cellular research. He also served as a Project Manager at IntGenome Biotechnology Inc., contributing to translational genomics initiatives.

He is actively involved in research through the Smyth Lab, which focuses on integrative approaches to understanding cellular signaling and communication in health and disease. The lab provides a collaborative environment for advancing mechanistic insights into cardiovascular biology.