Todd Michael, Ph.D. is a Research Professor at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, an Adjunct Professor at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), and Chief Science Officer at the San Diego Botanic Garden (SDBG). His research group focuses on leveraging advanced sequencing technologies and informatics to understand how genome architecture enables plants to adapt to and thrive in diverse environments. At the Salk Institute, the Michael Group contributes to the Harnessing Plants Initiative (HPI) by applying their genomics platform to develop crop, rangeland, and wetland species capable of enhanced carbon sequestration through deep root systems. At SDBG, Dr. Michael is applying plant genome sequencing and pangenomic frameworks to support conservation efforts and engage in educational outreach.