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Ask someone what they think of when they hear the phrase “bile acids,” and you might get a few unpleasant answers.  Ask Robert Quinn, assistant professor in Michigan State University’s Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology housed in the College of Natural Science, and you’ll kickstart a conversation about some of the most versatile and crucial actors in the human gut. 

“You’d be surprised to learn how few technologies that have been researched in labs for years actually make it to market,” says Frank Urban, director of venture creation – life sciences for Spartan Innovations. “But without getting to the market, that research doesn’t play out into changing people’s lives.“Dr. Abramovitch’s passion is not only to do tuberculosis research, but to drive that forward, to be a cause of change in the world.”

The department formerly known as MMG — the Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics — has officially changed its name to the Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology, or MGI.

   Richard Lenski, Ph.D., a Hannah Distinguished Professor in the Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology, was awarded the 2024 Meritorious Faculty Award. The College of Natural Science gives this award annually to a faculty member who demonstrates excellence in the areas of teaching and research. The award recognizes those who “exemplify MSU’s commitment to the land-grant mission of teaching, research and outreach through their dedication to professional, community and/or MSU service.”