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Edwin Ferguson is a Professor at the University of Chicago in the Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology. His research centers on the mechanisms underlying pattern formation and cell fate specification in the model organism Drosophila melanogaster. Ferguson’s lab investigates the functions of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs), particularly the BMP family member Decapentaplegic (Dpp), in dorsal-ventral (D/V) axis patterning. His laboratory has contributed significantly to the understanding of conservation in dorsal-ventral patterning mechanisms across arthropods and chordates. They have identified the function of the Spemann organizer in Xenopus and elucidated the role of non-linear feedback circuits in BMP signaling during Drosophila D/V patterning. Ferguson’s research has also explored the genetic networks responsible for the robustness of D/V patterning systems. Additionally, he has investigated the processes maintaining germ line stem cells (GSCs) in the adult ovary, demonstrating how interactions between GSCs and their surrounding niche create intrinsic polarity that influences cell division and differentiation. Dr. Ferguson is enthusiastic about mentoring new graduate students and is committed to educating future generations in biological sciences.
University of Chicago • Chicago, IL
Leading research and education in molecular genetics and cell biology, with a focus on Drosophila.
Department of Philosophy