Michael Platt

Michael Platt is the James S. Riepe University Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, with appointments in the Department of Neuroscience (Perelman School of Medicine), Department of Marketing (The Wharton School), and Department of Psychology (School of Arts & Sciences). His interdisciplinary research integrates neuroscience, economics, and evolutionary biology to understand decision-making and social interaction, with applications in business, health, and aging.

Education:

• BA in Biomedical Anthropology, Yale University
• Ph.D. in Biological Anthropology, University of Pennsylvania

Platt’s lab investigates neural mechanisms underlying social behavior, using techniques like optogenetics, genomics, and behavioral analysis. Key themes include neuroeconomics, social cognition, and primate adaptation. His work spans primate societies, human business behavior, and translational applications.

Recent publications focus on primate social resilience, neurogenetic mechanisms, and cross-species cognitive modeling. Articles analyze topics such as immune gene regulation, social aging, and neural correlates of exploration, reflecting his diverse research agenda.

Scientific Awards:

• MERIT award (NIMH)
• Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Fellow
• Master Teacher/Clinician Award (Duke)
• Teaching Commitment and Curricular Innovation Award (Wharton)

Platt directs the Wharton Neuroscience Initiative and co-founded Cogwear Technologies Inc. His lab’s work bridges business strategy, neurological disorders, and evolutionary insights, supported by major foundations and corporate partnerships like Vanguard and Mars Inc.