John Flanagan

John Flanagan, Ph.D., is a Professor of Cell Biology at Harvard Medical School (HMS), specializing in cell-cell signaling mechanisms underlying neural development and regeneration. He completed his undergraduate studies in biochemistry at the University of Oxford and his graduate work in molecular biology at the University of Cambridge. His postdoctoral training at HMS focused on axon guidance, leading to his faculty position in the Department of Cell Biology. His lab investigates how signaling molecules establish spatial patterns in neural connections, particularly in the context of development and regeneration of the nervous system.

Research Interests: Dr. Flanagan's work centers on understanding axon guidance cues, neurodegenerative mechanisms in glaucoma, and the role of lipoxins in neuroprotection. His studies integrate molecular, cellular, and systems-level approaches to dissect signaling pathways critical for neural circuit formation and disease.

Grants & Funding:

• NIH RF1NS069913 (2011–2026): Molecular Mechanisms of Neuron Motility and Axon Guidance
• NIH R01EY011559 (1996–2018): Cell-Cell Signaling in Development and Regeneration of Visual Connections

Labs & Teams: The Flanagan Lab at HMS explores axon guidance, neuroinflammation in glaucoma, and translational control in neurons, collaborating with institutions globally to advance therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.