Dr. Debra Silver

Professor

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Biography

Debra Lynn Silver is a Professor in the Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology at Duke University. Her research program employs a multifaceted strategy to bridge developmental neurobiology, RNA biology, and evolution. She investigates cell fates, studying progenitor divisions that influence development and disease, as well as diverse layers of post-transcriptional regulation in neural progenitors. Her studies focus on RNA binding proteins implicated in neurological diseases. Silver also uses live imaging to investigate sub-cellular control of mRNA localization and translation within neural progenitors. A significant aspect of her research is understanding how human-specific genetic changes influence species-specific brain development, aiming to integrate these efforts to comprehend the intricacies of brain development.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

Duke University • Durham, NC

Teaching and conducting research in the areas of cell biology and molecular genetics.

Co-Vice Chair

— Present

Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University • Durham, NC

Overseeing departmental operations and academic responsibilities.

Member

— Present

Duke Initiative for Science & Society • Durham, NC

Participating in interdisciplinary research and education initiatives.

Courses

UPGEN 778F: University Program Genetics Genomics Biological Solutions Module VI UPGEN 778B: University Program Genetics Genomics Biological Solutions Module II UPGEN 778A: University Program Genetics Genomics Biological Solutions Module NEUROSCI 495: Research Independent Study CMB 710A: Cell & Molecular Biology Module

Requirements for Duke University

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.2
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Multivariable Calculus Introduction to Physics (mechanics) Introduction to Chemistry
Application Checklist
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • Application Fee ($95)
  • Video Introduction
Specialization Notes

Department of Biomedical Engineering (MS program)