Dr. Michelle Starz-Gaiano

Dr. Michelle Starz-Gaiano

Professor · Tenured

Department of Biological Sciences

College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences

She/Her/Hers/Herself

About

Postdoctoral: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, D. Montell laboratory
Ph.D.: New York University, Developmental Genetics, R. Lehmann laboratory
B.S.: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Biology

Research interests

How do complex organs form during animal development? Our research group is working to identify the signaling events that enable cells to migrate, interact, and contribute to tissue architecture. We use Drosophila genetics, molecular biology, imaging, and interdisciplinary approaches. In particular, our research group focuses on understanding the regulation of the well-conserved Janus Kinase/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway, steroid hormone signaling, and growth factor signaling.

Teaching interests

Cell Biology, Developmental Genetics, Eukaryotic Molecular Genetics, Biomathematics. Evidence-based improvements in pedagogy.

Education

  • Ph D, Developmental GeneticsNew York University School of Medicine (2002)
  • BS, BiologyMassachusetts Institute of Technology (1994)