Eric Tytell

Eric Tytell is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at Tufts University, within the School of Arts and Sciences. He holds a PhD in Biology from Harvard University (2005), an MPhil in Zoology from the University of Cambridge (1999), and a BA in Biology and Physics from the University of North Carolina (1998). His research focuses on the biomechanics and neural control of locomotion in fishes, particularly how they generate propulsive forces and maintain stability in dynamic environments. His work integrates experiments, computational modeling, and robotics to explore feedback loops between sensory input, neural circuits, and body mechanics.

Key research themes include the role of the lateral line system in schooling behavior, the biomechanics of rapid turns, and the design of bio-inspired swimming robots. He leads the Tytell Laboratory, which collaborates on projects involving fluid dynamics, muscle physiology, and evolutionary adaptations. Notable grants include NSF-funded studies on locomotor biomechanics and Army Research Office projects on neuromechanical control. He teaches courses such as Experiment in Physiology and advises graduate students in neurobiology and ecology.