Education
- PhD, 1968, University of California, San Diego
- BS, 1963, Chemistry, Kyoto University
Research Summary
We are interested in the molecular, cellular and neural circuit mechanisms underlying learning and memory in rodents. We generate genetically engineered mice, and analyze them through multiple methods including molecular and cellular biology, electrophysiology, microscopic imaging, optogenetic engineering, and behavioral studies. Ultimately, we aim to detect the effects of our manipulations at multiple levels in the brain — deducing which behaviors or cognitions are causally linked to specific processes and events taking place at the molecular, cellular, and neuronal circuit levels.
Awards
- The Nobel Foundation, Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, 1987
- Albert and Mary Lasker Award in Basic Research, 1987
- National Academy of Sciences, Member, 1986
Education
- PhD, 1994, Baylor College of Medicine; MD, 1997, Baylor College of Medicine
- BS, 1989, Biochemistry, Louisiana State University
Research Summary
Using Drosophila, we study how neurons form synaptic connections, as well as how synapses transmit information and change during learning and memory. We also investigate how alterations in neuronal signaling underlie several neurological diseases, including epilepsy, autism, and Huntington’s Disease. We hope to bridge the gap between the molecular components of the synapse and the physiological responses they mediate.
Education
- PhD, 1993, University of Vienna
- BS, 1989, Biology, University of Vienna
Summary
Angelika Amon passed away on October 29, 2020. A professor and mentor at MIT for over 20 years, she studied cell growth and division. She investigated how macromolecule biosynthesis is coordinated with cell division, and how chromosome segregation is is regulated by intracellular and extracellular cues. She also analyzed the consequences of chromosome mis-segregation on cell and organismal physiology, and how these repercussions can lead to cancer and aging.
Awards
- Nakasone Award, Human Frontier Science Program, 2020
- Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences, 2019
- Vilcek Foundation Prize in Biomedical Science, 2019
- American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Member, 2017
- Elected Foreign Associate to EMBO, 2015
- Elected Foreign Associate to the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 2015
- Genetics Society of America Medal, 2014
- Ernst Jung Prize for Medicine, 2013
- National Academy of Sciences, Member, 2010
- National Academy of Sciences Award in Molecular Biology, 2008
- Paul Marks Prize, 2007
- ASBMB Amgen Award, 2007
- Alan T. Waterman Award, 2003
- Eli Lilly and Company Research Award, 2003
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, HHMI Investigator, 2000
Education
- PhD, 1992, University of Wisconsin-Madison
- BS, 1985, Zoology, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Research Summary
Before closing his lab, Frank Gertler’s research combined mouse genetics, cell biological and biochemical approaches to investigate the interplay between signal transduction pathways and the actin cytoskeleton. They deduced the functional importance of these regulatory systems in organismal development and disease. Their main focus was cell motility and the control of cellular protrusions — specifically, motility during tumor cell invasion and metastasis, as well as how neurons migrate and extend their growth cones.
Awards
- Ross Scholar Award, 2006-2008
- ASCB/Promega Early Career Life Scientist Award, 2003
- Keck Distinguished Young Scholar Award, 2000-2005
- McKnight Scholar in Neurosciences Award, 2000-2003
Education
- PhD, 1984, University of Wisconsin, Madison
- BS, 1979, Biochemistry, Brown University
Research Summary
We use a variety of approaches to investigate several of the fundamental and conserved processes used by bacteria for propagation and growth, adaptation to stresses, and acquisition of new genes and traits via horizontal gene transfer. Our long term goals are to understand many of the molecular mechanisms and regulation underlying basic cellular processes in bacteria. Our organism of choice for these studies is usually the Gram positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis.
Our current efforts are focused in two important areas of biology: 1) The control of horizontal gene transfer, specifically the lifecycle, function, and control of integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs). These elements are widespread in bacteria and contribute greatly to the spread of antibiotic resistances between organisms. 2) Regulation of the initiation of DNA replication and the connections between replication and gene expression, with particular focus on the conserved replication initiator and transcription factor DnaA. This work is directly related to mechanisms controlling bacterial growth, survival, and stress responses.
Awards
- National Academy of Sciences, 2014
- American Academy of Arts and Sciences, 2008
- American Academy of Microbiology 1998
- Eli Lilly Company Research Award, 1997
