Stephen J. Free

Stephen J. Free is a Research Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University at Buffalo, affiliated with the College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on the molecular, cellular, and developmental biology of filamentous fungi, particularly Neurospora crassa. He holds the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and the Meyerson Award for Distinguished Undergraduate Teaching and Mentoring.

Education: PhD from Stanford University, followed by postdoctoral research at the University of Wisconsin.

Research Interests: Investigating cell wall biosynthesis, including glycoprotein and polysaccharide incorporation, enzymatic properties of cell wall components, and regulation of female development in Neurospora crassa. His studies explore how the cell wall changes across the fungal life cycle and identify key transcription factors and signaling pathways.

Publications: Over 15 peer-reviewed articles since 2016, with recent work emphasizing GH72 family enzymes, galactosaminogalactan pathways, and melanin biosynthesis. His research bridges genetics, biochemistry, and cell biology to uncover mechanisms in fungal biology.

Awards: Recognized for teaching excellence and mentoring through SUNY and Meyerson awards.

Advising/Grants: While specific grant details are not listed, his active research program suggests ongoing funding. He mentors students in biochemical and genetic analyses of fungal systems.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Free Laboratory, focused on fungal cell biology and development.