Brian J Mitchell

Brian J Mitchell is an Associate Professor in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He is affiliated with the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Skin Biology and Diseases Resource-Based Center. His research focuses on the integration of signaling and cytoskeletal dynamics in developmental processes, particularly centriole amplification, cell migration, and polarity.

• Education: BA from University of San Diego (1993), PhD from University of North Carolina (2001)
• Postdoctoral Training: University of Texas, Austin (2003); Salk Institute for Biological Sciences (2008)

Mitchell’s work explores cilia polarity, where ciliated epithelia generate directed fluid flow for physiological processes like respiratory function. His lab investigates how hundreds of cilia coordinate polarity and how centriole duplication—typically a tightly regulated process—can be overcome in multiciliated cells to provide insights into cancer progression. Recent studies highlight mechanisms such as macropinocytosis for tissue crowding relief and Piezo1-driven apical extrusion in cell migration.

His publications span topics like centriole defects in primary ciliary dyskinesia, mechanosensitive regulation of cilia, and evolutionary quirks in multiciliated cells. Articles in Nature Communications and Developmental Biology journals emphasize epithelial morphogenesis, ciliary diseases, and mechanobiology.

Scientific Awards and Leadership

• Woods Hole Marine Biological Laboratory awards (2015-2016)
• Co-chair of Gordon Research Conference (2015, 2023)
• Editorial roles at Cytoskeleton and Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology
• Leadership in professional societies like American Society for Cell Biology

As a lab leader, Mitchell uses Xenopus embryos to study complex epithelia formation, mentoring research technicians, postdocs, and undergraduates. His team’s work bridges cell polarity, ciliogenesis, and cancer biology, with implications for respiratory diseases and developmental disorders.