Dr. Mubarak Hussain Syed
Assistant Professor, University of New Mexico, Department of Biology
PI: Prof. Ted Erclik
12 to 1 PM
IB 140 & Zoom
Title
A Developmental Tale of Lineages, Circuits, and Behaviors
Abstract
During development, neural stem cells (NSCs) generate a diverse range of cell types that self-assemble to form neural circuits, regulating distinct behaviors. The specification and assembly of neural cell types into neural circuits is poorly understood.
Our research group uses a curiosity-driven approach that combines collaborative and diverse scientific and life experiences to understand the fundamental principles of neural diversity. Using our favorite model system, the fruit fly, we investigate developmental programs that generate neural cell types of the highly conserved insect brain region, the central complex. We have identified key transcription factors and RNA-binding proteins that specify neural cell types, regulating two essential behaviors: olfactory navigation and sleep. In New Mexico, we have also initiated an ambitious Pueblo Brain Science program that involves training, mentoring, and science outreach modules to train the next generation of scientists. You can learn more about my programs here.