Michael Lin

Michael Lin is a Professor of Neurobiology and Bioengineering at Stanford University, with a courtesy appointment in Chemical and Systems Biology. His work bridges synthetic biology and neurophotonics to develop novel tools for in vivo biology and molecular medicine.

• Education
  • BA in Biochemical Sciences, Harvard University (1994)
  • PhD in Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School (2002)
  • MD in Medicine, UCLA (2004)
  • Postdoctoral Fellowship, UCSD (2009)

Dr. Lin specializes in creating protein-based technologies to manipulate and visualize biological processes. His contributions include viral protease systems for protein control, photoswitchable proteins for signaling dynamics, fluorescent voltage sensors for neuronal activity, luciferase reporters for non-invasive imaging, and synthetic pathways for cancer therapy. His research spans molecular engineering, neurobiology, and translational medicine.

The 15 most recent publications highlight his focus on voltage imaging, protease inhibitors, bioluminescent reporters, and synthetic biology applications. Key areas include hippocampal circuitry, SARS-CoV-2 antiviral strategies, two-photon microscopy, and optogenetic tools for gene editing and kinase regulation.

Contact: mzlin@stanford.edu | Stanford Neurobiology Department