Dr. Rachel Wilson

Professor

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Biography

Rachel Wilson is the Joseph B. Martin Professor of Basic Research in Neurobiology at Harvard Medical School and an Investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Her research focuses on understanding key computations that occur during sensory processing and sensorimotor integration, employing the fruit fly Drosophila as a model organism. The genetic toolkit available for this organism allows for rapid generation of new reagents to label and manipulate specific classes of neurons in the brain. Individual neurons in Drosophila are uniquely identifiable, which makes it possible to build a cumulative picture of neural networks and understand the activity patterns of neurons in light of their synaptic connectivity. Rachel's lab is particularly interested in sensory processing, currently focusing on olfactory, auditory, and mechanosensory systems, as well as the integration of sensory inputs across modalities. Additionally, the lab investigates motor behaviors that involve guided limb control, providing insights into the fundamental principles of neural systems in relation to both simple and complex brains.

Research Interests

Requirements for Harvard Medical School

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree Undergraduate preparation in the sciences Biology Chemistry Physics
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Personal Statement
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • CV/Resume
  • Application fee ($105)
Specialization Notes

Administered by the Division of Medical Sciences (DMS). GRE is not required and will not be considered for BBS, Immunology, and Neuroscience.