Michael joins us from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), where he has been a research assistant in the Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Department. Michael’s recent research addressed the properties and relationships of organic semiconductors; he co-authored a paper published in a peer-reviewed journal that explored methods to facilitate organic semiconductor development. Michael also worked for the UIUC Entomology Department, researching honey bee physiology and behavior. Michael graduated from UIUC summa cum laude with a BS in Chemistry and Economics and he earned multiple awards for academic achievement. He held leadership positions in the Illinois Triathlon Club and the Illinois Ski and Snowboard Club, and was a four-year member of the UIUC Men’s Water Polo Club. Michael grew up in Champaign, IL.