Dr. Michelle Spiering

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Michelle Spiering is an Associate Research Professor at Penn State University, focusing on molecular biology with a specialization in DNA replication and repair mechanisms. Her research is centered in the Benkovic Lab, where significant work is done to unravel the molecular mechanisms underpinning DNA replication processes, especially those involving bacteriophage T4. Spiering has collaborated with the Li Lab at the Van Andel Institute, contributing to discoveries regarding the assembly pathway of the T4 primosome, which has provided crucial insights into DNA replication. Her work has implications for understanding RNA primer-primase complexes' role in signaling polymerase recycling and the initiation of synthesis for Okazaki fragments, thereby enhancing the scientific community's grasp of lagging-strand replication. Notable collaborations also include utilizing magnetic tweezers to explore the cooperative dynamics of polymerase and helicase during leading-strand synthesis. Throughout her career, she has published extensively on these subjects, contributing to advancements in both molecular biology and biotechnology applications.

Research Interests

Awards

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NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA)

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Susan Lipschutz Award

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Jane Tichy Memorial Award

Requirements for Pennsylvania State University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:23
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7
GRE General
Prerequisites
Master's degree in related field for PhD Baccalaureate degree from accredited institution
Application Checklist
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Writing Sample
  • Official Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE scores are highly recommended but not strictly required for Applied Linguistics.