David Jay Julius

David Julius is a professor and chair of the Department of Physiology at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), where he has held faculty positions since 1989. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of touch and pain sensation, particularly through the study of TRP (transient receptor potential) ion channels activated by thermal and chemical stimuli like capsaicin and menthol.

• Education:
  • BS in Life Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1977)
  • PhD in Biochemistry, University of California, Berkeley (1984)
  • Postdoctoral training with Richard Axel at Columbia University (1984-1990)

Research highlights: Julius's lab discovered and characterized TRPV1, TRPM8, and TRPA1 receptors, revealing how they detect temperature and chemical irritants. His work has implications for non-opioid pain therapies and understanding neurogenic inflammatory diseases. He has also contributed to the discovery of purinergic receptors and serotonin-activated ion channels.

Scientific award trends: Julius has received numerous accolades for his groundbreaking work, including the 2021 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (with Ardem Patapoutian), the 2020 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences, the 2020 Kavli Prize in Neuroscience, and the 2013 Dr. Paul Janssen Award for Biomedical Research.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (2021)
  • Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences (2020)
  • Kavli Prize in Neuroscience (2020)
  • Dr. Paul Janssen Award for Biomedical Research (2013)
  • Shaw Prize in Life Science and Medicine (2010)
  • Gairdner Foundation International Award (2017)
  • Prince of Asturias Prize for Technical and Scientific Research (2010)

Leadership and service: Julius served as editor of the Annual Review of Physiology (2007-2020) and has been a scientific advisor for organizations like the Pew Scholars Program and Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation. He is married to fellow UCSF professor Holly Ingraham, with whom he has a son, Philip Julius.