Martin J Cohn

Martin J Cohn is a Professor and Joint Faculty member in the Department of Biology at the University of Florida, affiliated with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. from University College London, UK (1997). His research focuses on Evolutionary Developmental Biology, particularly the molecular mechanisms underlying vertebrate external genitalia development, limb evolution, and skeletal diversification across species.

Dr. Cohn's work integrates comparative embryology, molecular genetics, and evolutionary biology to address fundamental questions in vertebrate morphogenesis. His lab has extensively studied reptiles, birds, and mammals, revealing conserved and divergent genetic pathways in genital and limb development. Notable projects include investigations into the evolutionary origins of copulatory organs in sharks, phallus reduction in birds, and the role of Hedgehog signaling in genital tubercle formation.

Key contributions include identifying transcriptional regulators (e.g., GLI3, Foxa1/2) and signaling pathways (Shh, FGF) critical for genital and urogenital tract development. His research also explores environmental impacts on sexual differentiation, such as fungicide-induced genital anomalies. Over 150 peer-reviewed articles document his findings, with recent work emphasizing single-cell transcriptomics and evolutionary developmental mechanisms.

Dr. Cohn collaborates widely, contributing to translational research on congenital anomalies and hosting the Cohn Laboratory Website for resource sharing. His work bridges basic and applied science, offering insights into both evolutionary biology and human health challenges.