Michael Henderson is a Ph.D. candidate in Biomedical Engineering at OHSU's Knight Cancer Institute and a member of the CEDAR center. Co-mentored by Dr. Stuart Ibsen and Dr. Adem Yildirim, he is advancing the efficacy of nanoparticle- and protein-based therapies to improve cancer immunotherapies.

Before joining OHSU, Michael earned his bachelor's degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Carroll College. He began his journey in nanomedicine through internships in Dr. Gaurav Sahay’s lab at Oregon State University. As a research assistant, he led independent projects, including efforts to enhance the cold-chain stability of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic. This experience strengthened his commitment to translating academic discoveries into real-world impact through academic–industry collaboration.

Outside the lab, Michael is an avid mountaineer and photographer. He is also deeply committed to global health, having volunteered for over a decade with Cascade Medical Team’s surgical missions in rural Guatemala.