Alexander May

Alexander May is a Specially Appointed Assistant Professor at the Cell Biology Center, Institute of Innovative Research at Tokyo Institute of Technology, where he focuses on the physiological role of autophagy, particularly its relationship with mitochondrial function. He earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Monash University in 2016 and has since conducted research aimed at understanding how autophagy influences cell growth and metabolism in yeast. His work employs a variety of techniques, including molecular biology, biochemistry, and microscopy, to investigate the degradation of biomolecules through autophagy under different metabolic conditions. May's research has led to significant publications in high-impact journals such as Nature and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, contributing to the broader understanding of cellular processes and their implications for health and disease. He has been recognized for his contributions to the field through selection for the National High-level Talent Introduction Program Youth Project, reflecting his status as a rising star in cell biology research. Through his teaching and research activities at Tokyo Tech, he continues to advance knowledge in autophagy and its vital role in cellular homeostasis.