Robert H. Singer

Robert H. Singer is a Professor and Co-Chair of Anatomy & Structural Biology, Professor of Cell Biology and Neuroscience at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He holds the Harold and Muriel Block Chair in Anatomy & Structural Biology and co-directs the Gruss Lipper Biophotonics Center and the Integrated Imaging Program. His research focuses on RNA dynamics, including single-molecule imaging of mRNA from transcription to degradation, and developing advanced microscopy techniques. He leads a lab renowned for innovations in fluorescent RNA labeling and real-time tracking of mRNA trafficking in living cells.

Research Interests: Dr. Singer’s work centers on understanding RNA expression, localization, and translational regulation. His lab pioneered methods to visualize RNA in living cells using fluorescent probes and super-resolution microscopy, enabling the study of mRNA behavior in neurons, fibroblasts, and yeast. Key topics include RNA localization mechanisms, stress granule formation, and the impact of mRNA dynamics on health and disease.

Patents: He has authored numerous patents, including technologies for RNA visualization (e.g., US Patent #6,586,240), multi-fluor FISH assays, and in-situ hybridization methods. These innovations underpin his lab’s contributions to biotechnology and diagnostics.

Lab & Collaborations: The Singer Lab collaborates widely, advancing tools for studying HIV latency, coronavirus replication, and RNA-protein interactions. His team includes over 50 current and former trainees, reflecting a commitment to mentoring the next generation of scientists.

Publications: Recent work spans topics like mRNA stability in yeast, intercellular RNA transfer, and imaging techniques for neurodegenerative diseases. Over 200+ publications highlight his lab’s interdisciplinary impact in cell biology, neuroscience, and biophysics.