Roberto De Michele

Roberto De Michele is a Senior Researcher at the National Research Council of Italy (CNR), affiliated with the Institute of Biosciences and BioResources (IBBR-CNR) in Palermo. His research focuses on genetically encoded fluorescent sensors for studying nutrient transport in plants, particularly ammonium transporters (AmTracs) and their roles in symbiosis. He also investigates reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) in plant stress responses, programmed cell death (PCD), and senescence mechanisms. De Michele holds a PhD in Biotechnology from the University of Padova (2005) and has extensive international experience, including postdoctoral fellowships at the Carnegie Institution for Science (Stanford, USA) and visiting scientist roles at Cambridge University and Heinrich Heine University.

Professional Highlights:

• 2020–Present: Visiting Scientist, University of Cambridge
• 2019–Present: Mercator Fellow, Heinrich Heine University
• 2010–Present: Researcher, CNR-IBBR
• 2010–2012: Postdoctoral Fellow, Carnegie Institution for Science (Supervisor: Wolf Frommer)

Research Interests:

• Development of fluorescent sensors for nutrient transport
• Role of ROS/RNS in plant stress and development
• Heavy metal-induced PCD and senescence
• Genetic diversity of Mediterranean crops (e.g., grapevine, caper)

Selected Projects:

• Analysis of Sicilian grapevine genetic diversity
• Transcriptomic studies of detoxification systems in Chromera velia
• Hydrogen sulfide regulation of lignan biosynthesis

Labs & Collaborations: Active in CNR-IBBR labs focusing on plant physiology, proteomics, and genetic engineering. Collaborates internationally with institutions like Cambridge University and the University of California, Berkeley.