Michael R. Stark

Michael R. Stark is a Professor in the Department of Cell Biology & Physiology at Brigham Young University's College of Life Sciences. His research focuses on early nervous system development in vertebrates, particularly investigating cellular fate determination, cranial placode development, and molecular mechanisms underlying neural tube defects leading to conditions like anencephaly and spina bifida. He has served as Department Chair (2018-2023) and is a member of The Brain Institute since 2007.

Research Interests
Dr. Stark’s work centers on developmental biology and neuroscience, with specific emphasis on neural tube defects, cell fate determination, and signaling pathways (FGF, Notch, Wnt) regulating sensory neuron formation and placodal development. Recent studies explore CNS development and molecular steps in cellular differentiation.

Publications Trends
His research spans 1994-2015, focusing on vertebrate embryology, cranial placode signaling (FGF, Notch, Wnt), gene expression in neural development, and molecular mechanisms of birth defects. Key techniques include in vivo electroporation, fluorescent immunolabeling, and transposon-based genetic manipulation in avian and reptilian models.

Scientific Awards

• Outstanding College Research Award, College of Life Sciences, BYU (2010-2011)

Professional Contributions
Dr. Stark served as Department Chair (2018-2023), was an Ad Hoc Reviewer for BBSRC (2014), and participated in the LDS Life Science Research Symposium (2010-2013). His lab’s outreach includes hosting the starklab.byu.edu website and mentoring through research projects.