The Cell and Developmental Biology Program at UVA features rich and diverse training in modern cell and developmental biology from a creative and internationally-recognized faculty.

The program highlights cutting-edge interests in morphogenesis and regenerative biology.  Ongoing research addresses fundamental issues at both the cellular level (membrane and cytoskeletal dynamics, signal transduction, mitosis, cell adhesion, motility, mechanotransduction, polarity) and higher-order processes such as embryonic patterning, morphogenetic movements, tissue morphogenesis and repair. These issues are examined in contexts that include cell culture models, differentiated tissues, patterning embryos, and tissues during development and wound repair.

Studies employing engineered mutant mice, Drosophila, Xenopus, and Zebrafish offer a range of venues for investigating fundamental mechanisms, their relationship to morphogenesis, and their dysfunction in human diseases.  Research in all of these areas employ the latest cell, molecular, biophysical, and microscopic technologies.

The program fosters a culture of collaboration that extends beyond any single department. Students commonly participate in institution-wide training programs in cancer biology, cell and molecular biology, biotechnology, and cardiovascular research. The collegial and highly interactive learning environment incorporates seminars, journal clubs, colloquia, and research-in-progress presentations by students, postdocs, and faculty.