Jonathan Kelber

Jonathan Kelber is an Associate Professor of Biology at California State University, Northridge (CSUN), where he also directs the Developmental Oncogene Laboratory. He joined the CSUN faculty in 2012 and is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists through hands-on research training for undergraduates, graduates, and postdoctoral fellows.

Dr. Kelber earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and later obtained his Ph.D. Before joining academia, he worked as a high school science teacher, which reinforced his passion for education and student mentorship.

His research focuses on cancer metastasis, particularly in breast and pancreatic cancers. He investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive cancer progression and aims to improve early diagnosis and treatment. His work is highly student-centered, offering diverse trainees opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research, publish peer-reviewed articles, and present at international conferences.

Dr. Kelber was awarded a four-year, $1.46 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in January 2017, one of the largest grants ever given to a CSUN faculty member. This funding has significantly expanded his research program and trainee capacity.

He is passionate about providing underrepresented students with research experiences comparable to those at major research institutions. His mentorship philosophy is inspired by his own undergraduate experience at a CSU campus, where supportive faculty mentors played a transformative role.

Dr. Kelber is an active researcher and educator, balancing his time between laboratory work at Chaparral Hall and enjoying the outdoors, often biking to campus. His lab reflects the diversity of the CSUN student body, with a strong emphasis on inclusion and real-world scientific impact.