Michel Becuwe

Michel Becuwe is an Assistant Professor of Biology in the School of Science at Marist College. His research lies at the intersection of cell biology and metabolism, focusing on lipid homeostasis, membrane dynamics, and intracellular trafficking using yeast as a model organism. He employs genetic screens, molecular biology, biochemistry, and fluorescent microscopy to investigate how cells regulate lipid synthesis and storage, particularly in the endoplasmic reticulum.

• PhD in Cell Biology, Jacques Monod Institute – University of Paris (France), 2014
• MS in Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Paris (France), 2010
• BS in Cellular Biology and Physiology, Bordeaux University (France), 2008

Dr. Becuwe's research interests center on understanding the molecular mechanisms of lipid metabolism, with emphasis on the formation, regulation, and function of lipid droplets and the endoplasmic reticulum. His lab uses yeast genetics to identify key regulatory genes and validates findings in human cells, bridging fundamental biology with implications for metabolic diseases such as fatty liver disease. His work integrates cell biology with systems-level approaches to uncover conserved cellular pathways.

The most recent publications highlight a consistent focus on lipid regulation and membrane biology, with key contributions to understanding FIT2 enzyme function, lipid droplet dynamics, and ubiquitin-mediated trafficking. The research spans model organisms to human relevance, showing a trajectory toward translational cell biology.

Scientific Awards:

• Harvard College Certificate of Distinction in Teaching (2020–2022)
• Doty-Losick Prize for Excellent Service, Harvard (2021)
• Jane Coffin Childs Postdoctoral Fellowship (2015–2018)
• EMBO Long-Term Fellowship (2015)
• Fellowship from the Philippe Foundation (2016–2017)
• French Research Ministry Fellowship (2010–2013)

Dr. Becuwe has mentored students through research in his lab, though no named advisees are listed. He previously taught Cell and Molecular Biology at Harvard College and was recognized for teaching excellence. His research has been supported by prestigious fellowships, indicating strong peer recognition and grant acquisition ability. He brings extensive training from elite institutions, including Harvard and the University of Paris.

While no formal lab or team name is mentioned, Dr. Becuwe leads an active research group at Marist focused on lipid biology using yeast and human cell models, combining genetic, biochemical, and imaging techniques to dissect fundamental cellular processes.