Alice Accorsi

Alice Accorsi is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of California, Davis, within the College of Biological Sciences. She leads the Accorsi Lab, which focuses on the development and regeneration of complex sensory organs, particularly camera-type eyes, using the golden apple snail Pomacea canaliculata as a genetically tractable model system.

Education:

• B.S. in Biological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy), 2009
• M.S. in Biology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy), 2011
• Ph.D. in Cell Biology and Evolution, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy), 2015
• Postdoctoral Fellow in Developmental Biology, Stowers Institute for Medical Research, 2015–2024

Her research centers on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern eye development and regeneration. Using techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis, sequencing, and advanced imaging, her lab investigates gene regulatory networks (GRNs) to determine which components are regeneration-specific versus those shared with developmental programs. This work has broad implications for regenerative medicine and evolutionary biology.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend toward utilizing non-vertebrate model systems for studying regeneration, with a focus on genetic tractability, single-cell analysis, and evolutionary genomics. Her work spans disciplines including developmental biology, molecular genetics, proteomics, and computational biology.

Scientific Awards:

• UC Davis Award for Innovation and Creative Vision (2025)

Alice Accorsi actively mentors students and hosts visiting researchers in her lab. Her team includes undergraduate researchers and visiting PhD students, indicating a growing academic advising role. While major grants are not explicitly listed, her postdoctoral tenure at the Stowers Institute and current independent lab suggest significant research funding support.

The Accorsi Lab emphasizes creativity, teamwork, and individual growth in a respectful environment. Current research themes include camera-type eye development, regeneration plasticity, and evolutionary conservation of visual systems.