Mikael Elias

Mikael Elias is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics at the University of Minnesota's College of Biological Sciences. He leads the Elias Lab within the BioTechnology Institute, located at 1479 Gortner Avenue, St. Paul. His research deciphers molecular evolution mechanisms and engineers biological solutions for societal challenges, including antibiotic resistance and environmental decontamination.

Research Interests:
Dr. Elias investigates: (1) Molecular adaptations of extremophiles in harsh environments (e.g., arsenate-rich systems), (2) Phosphate transport mechanisms in microbes using the Pst transporter, (3) Disruption of bacterial communication (quorum sensing) via lactonase enzymes to combat virulence and biofilms, and (4) Engineering enzymes for biodegradation of insecticides. His work integrates structural biology, protein design, and bioinformatics.

Lab & Collaboration:
The Elias Lab employs molecular biology, microbiology, and ultra-high-resolution structural analysis. It actively seeks graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, emphasizing diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration. Current projects focus on hijacking microbial signaling pathways and developing eco-friendly biotechnologies.