Dr. Stephen Helfand

Biography

Stephen Helfand is the George D. Eggleston Professor of Biochemistry and Vice Chair of the Neurology Department at Brown University. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree from Stanford University and earned his MD from Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr. Helfand completed his medical training with a residency in neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital, followed by postdoctoral work at Stanford and Yale. His laboratory focuses on molecular genetic mechanisms of aging and longevity, utilizing Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism. Dr. Helfand’s research explores the genetic underpinnings of aging, aiming to unravel the pathways that determine lifespan. His notable achievements include being named an AAAS Fellow and receiving the Glenn Award for research on the biological mechanisms of aging. His laboratory's projects involve identifying genetic interventions that could potentially extend lifespan and enhance health, including studies on the Indy gene and its effects on metabolism and aging.

Research Interests

Experience