Dr. Helen Blau

Professor

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Biography

Helen M. Blau is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Director of the Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology at Stanford University. She has been a faculty member since 1978, becoming a Professor in 1991. Her research is focused on cellular reprogramming and therapeutic interventions to enhance stem cell function and muscle regeneration, including strategies for cell rejuvenation. Dr. Blau investigates the regulatory networks that determine cell fate and how they are altered during aging, particularly in muscle tissues. Her work has led to discoveries regarding small molecules and niche proteins that can enhance muscle stem cell functions and strategies to counteract short telomere disorders. Helen Blau holds multiple honorary positions and memberships in esteemed societies across various fields, enhancing her contributions to regenerative biology. She is recognized for her research impact and political involvement in science, receiving awards such as the National Medal of Science. Dr. Blau integrates cutting-edge single-cell technologies to advance her studies in cell fate and provides crucial insights into muscle wasting disorders. Her overarching goal is to make a significant contribution to human health.

Research Interests

Cellular Reprogramming Stem Cell Biology Muscle Regeneration Cell Rejuvenation Aging Biology

Experience

Professor & Director

2000-01-01 — Present

Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology • Stanford, California

Director of the Baxter Laboratory focusing on stem cell biology.

Chair

1997-01-01 — 2002-01-01

Department of Molecular Pharmacology • Stanford, California

Led the department in various academic and administrative functions.

Awards

#

National Medal of Science

#

Lifetime Achievement Award

Patents

Compositions Methods Muscle Regeneration Using Prostaglandin E2

9918994B1 2018-03-20

Methods Inducing Tissue Regeneration

8,852,579 2014-10-07

Biological Sensor Protein Interactions

8,679,832 2014-03-25

Detection Protein Translocation Beta-Galactosidase Reporter Fragment Complementation

8,586,294 2013-11-19

Detection Molecular Interactions Using Reduced Affinity Enzyme Complementation Reporter System

8,541,175 2013-09-24

GPCR Functional Assay: Detection Sub-Cellular Compartment Localization Molecule Using Reduced Affinity Enzyme Complementation Reporter System

8,426,138 2013-04-23

Detection Protein Modification

8,148,110 2012-04-03

Sequential Reporter Enzyme Luminescence (SRL) Methods Compositions Practicing

7,582,417 2009-09-01

Detection Molecular Interactions Reporter Subunit Complementation

7,223,537 2007-09-29

Novel System Detection Protein-Protein Interactions Mammalian Cells

6,342,345 2002-01-29

Isolation, Growth, Differentiation Genetic Engineering Human Muscle Cells

5538722A 1996-07-23

Courses

CBIO 299 MI 198 MI 299 NEPR 299 CBIO 399 MI 399 NEPR 399 MI 370 BIOE 191X BIO 300X BIO 199X CBIO 260 MI 199

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.