Sarah L.J. Michel

Sarah L.J. Michel, PhD, is Dean and Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. She has held key leadership roles including former Chair of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies, and was appointed Dean in October 2023 after serving as interim dean. She has been a faculty member since 2004 and is deeply involved in both research and education, including PhD, MS, and PharmD programs.

Education:

• BA in Chemistry, Cornell University (1995)
• PhD in Inorganic Chemistry, Northwestern University (2000)
• NRSA Postdoctoral Fellowship in Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Dr. Michel is an internationally recognized leader in metals in medicine, focusing on the roles of metals in chronic inflammation, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. Her lab employs a ‘molecules to proteomics’ approach, integrating biochemical, biophysical, and cell biological methods with advanced bioanalytical strategies. Key research areas include zinc finger protein function, iron nanoparticle drug metabolism, and toxic metal exposure from electronic cigarettes. Her work has significantly influenced regulatory science, including FDA guidance on generic nanomedicines.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend in bioinorganic pharmaceutical research, spanning fundamental mechanisms of metal-protein interactions to translational applications in drug development and public health. Themes include metal-mediated gene regulation, redox-active cofactors in RNA processing, and the clinical evaluation of nanomedicines and e-cigarette safety. Her lab combines molecular-level biochemistry with proteomics and clinical trials, bridging basic science and regulatory impact.

Scientific Awards and Recognitions:

• NIH IMSD T32 grant (2022) to train underrepresented students
• Contributed to FDA guidance on nanomedicine evaluation
• AFPE Pre-Doctoral Fellowships awarded to multiple students (2019, 2022)
• UMB PSC Fellowship and Merit Awards
• CBI Fellowship awarded to students
• NSF funding for diversity initiatives

Dr. Michel has actively mentored numerous PhD and PharmD students and led educational innovations, including redesigning the PharmD biochemistry curriculum and developing a research pathway. She has secured significant grants from NIH, NSF, FDA, and the U.S. Army. Her leadership extends to institutional governance, having served as President of the UMB Faculty Senate (2015–2017) and advocating for the MPower collaboration. She is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming all in her lab regardless of background.

The Michel Laboratory is a dynamic research team working on translational bioinorganic problems. Current members include PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and collaborative teams across UMB, particularly with the School of Dentistry. The lab fosters an inclusive environment and is actively engaged in cutting-edge research on metal homeostasis, drug delivery, and environmental toxicology.