Dr. Kenneth Polonsky

Professor

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Biography

Dr. Kenneth S. Polonsky is a distinguished researcher in the field of diabetes and metabolism, focusing on the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes through the study of abnormal insulin secretion. His laboratory utilizes mouse models of diabetes to investigate the underlying mechanisms of pancreatic β-cell dysfunction. A primary area of his interest revolves around pancreatic β-cell death, and his studies have shown that various forms of programmed cell death, including autophagy and apoptosis, contribute to the reduction in insulin secretion observed in diabetes. Current research efforts in his lab are directed towards identifying novel strategies to interrupt cell death pathways, specifically through the modulation of BH3-only proteins such as Puma and Bim which mediate apoptosis in β-cells. Dr. Polonsky's work aims to uncover the mechanisms that can preserve β-cell function and mass, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. His contributions to the field are evidenced by his extensive publication record and numerous honors, including being elected as an Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland and a member of the National Academy of Medicine.

Research Interests

Experience

Richard T. Crane Distinguished Service Professor

— Present

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

Leading research in diabetes and metabolic disorders, focusing on pancreatic β-cell function and insulin secretion.

Awards

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Elected Honorary Fellow

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Elected National Academy of Medicine

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National Institutes of Health MERIT Award

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Elected Association of American Physicians

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Outstanding Scientific Achievement Award

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American Federation for Clinical Research Young Investigator Award

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Elected American Society for Clinical Investigation

Requirements for University of Chicago

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:104
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree Writing sample Candidate statement
Application Checklist
  • Candidate Statement
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of Recommendation (3)
  • Writing Sample
  • Application Fee
Specialization Notes

Department of Philosophy