Dr. Paola Arlotta

Biography

Paola Arlotta is the Golub Family Professor of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology at Harvard University and the Chair of the Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology. She is also an Associate Member of the Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research at the Broad Institute. Her lab’s research focuses on the development and engineering of the neocortex, aiming to understand the principles that govern normal cortical development and the mechanisms behind human neurodevelopmental diseases. The research investigates the molecular logic that generates and maintains the diverse circuitry of various cell types in the mammalian brain, particularly within the cerebral cortex. Arlotta's work has shown that cell identity in the central nervous system can be challenged and modified even in postmitotic neurons. Additionally, her lab has pioneered the use of stem cell-derived brain organoids as models for studying neurodevelopmental disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, by observing the cellular diversity and developmental trajectories similar to those found in the human brain.

Research Interests