Scientist of Vision Award Recipient- Michael Levin

Created on 2012-08-02 at 13:31:00.

Last updated on 2012-08-02 at 13:07:57.

The IFESS 2012 committee is proud to present the Scientist of Vision Award to Dr. Michael Levin for his work in new frontiers of FES. Dr. Levin obtained his B.Sc. from Tufts University and his Ph.D. from Harvard Medical school. He is currently Professor and Director of the Centre for Regenerative and Developmental Biology at Tufts University . The Levin laboratory studies the molecular mechanisms cells use to communicate with one another in the 4-dimensional dynamical system known as the developing embryo. Through experimental approaches and mathematical modeling, Dr. Levin examines the processes governing large-scale pattern formation and biological information storage during animal embryogenesis. In contrast to other groups focusing on gene expression networks and biochemical signaling factors, the Levin group is pursuing the roles of endogenous voltages (electrical fields), pH gradients, and ion fluxes as epigenetic carriers of morphological information. Using gain- and loss-of-function techniques to specifically modulate cells' ion flow we have the ability to regulate large-scale morphogenetic events relevant to limb formation, eye induction, etc.