Michael Donaldson ’07, Ph.D., Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program, Markham, ON

 

Michael Donaldson’s ground-breaking doctoral work at Trent could forever change the way we manage global food supplies or even fight life-threatening disease. He is passionate about the biotechnology and genomics research he is conducting, which studies the impact of fungal pathogens on plants. As an experienced researcher in the private sector and the world of academia, Michael chose to conduct his doctoral work at Trent after discussing ideas for his thesis with associate professor of Forensics, Dr. Barry Saville.

“I was attracted to Trent University because it offered the opportunity to work in a world-class research program, studying plant-pathogen interactions under the supervision of Dr. Saville,” said Michael.  “The impact Dr. Saville has had on my ability to conduct and communicate research is unmeasurable. I am indebted to him for his support, technical guidance, literary teachings, encouragement, and friendship.” 
Throughout his time at Trent, Michael’s research has been published in several peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific conferences. Dr. Saville, the principal investigator at the Saville Laboratory at Trent’s DNA Building, celebrates the sheer magnitude of Michael’s scientific accomplishments. “Michael is the caliber of student that we are very proud of producing,” said Dr. Saville. “His work may provide new means to fight fungal plant pathogens and thus provide a more secure food supply, but it has also provided insight into a new area of gene expression control that is important in organisms from yeast to humans. It is even being looked at in the control of cancer gene expression.” 

In addition to all that Trent has to offer, Michael feels the surrounding community is a perfect fit for his young family. He said, “I would encourage students to consider that Trent University provides all of the amenities and high-tech or specialized equipment afforded to researchers in the larger institutions, but in a smaller city. Today, along with our son, my wife and I are excited to call Peterborough our home.”  Michael is grateful for his experience at Trent University and has decided to continue his work here as a post-doctoral researcher and someday share his knowledge as a professor.

Awards and Scholarships received at Trent University: 

• Ontario Graduate Scholarship (2010-2011)
• Travel Awards, Canadian Phytopathological Society and the ENLS Graduate Program (2010)
• Two French American Charitable Trust Graduate Scholarships  (2008, 2009)