Jeffrey Macklis

Jeffrey Macklis is the Max and Anne Wien Professor of Life Sciences at Harvard University, Professor of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, and Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School. His research focuses on molecular controls over neuronal development, diversity, and regeneration in the cerebral cortex.

• Education: S.B. in Bioelectrical Engineering and Literature-Philosophy from MIT, Harvard Medical School (HST Program), and graduate work at MIT under Richard L. Sidman.

Research Interests: His lab investigates the molecular logic of cortical projection neuron specification, subcellular growth cone biology, induced neurogenesis, and directed differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells. Key themes include cortical circuitry in autism and ALS, regeneration strategies for spinal cord injury, and novel technologies like molecular memory devices.

Scientific Awards:

• Rita Allen Foundation Scholar Award
• NIH Director’s Innovation Award
• CNS Foundation Award
• Cajal-Krieg Cortical Discoverer Prize
• NIH Director’s Pioneer Award (2017)

Collaborative Work: His lab develops tools such as BEAM/BEACON for genetic mosaic analysis and nanoRibo-seq for subcellular translation studies. Publications highlight innovations in axonal pathfinding, RNA regulation, and neurodevelopmental disease modeling.

Lab Overview: The Macklis Laboratory integrates mouse genetics and human assembloid models to study cortical circuit formation, degeneration in diseases like ALS, and regeneration strategies. He directs the Developmental and Regenerative Biology Ph.D. Program and is an Executive Committee member of the Harvard Stem Cell Institute.