François Schweisguth

François Schweisguth is a CNRS Research Director and Unit Head at the Institut Pasteur in Paris, where he leads research in developmental and stem cell biology. He is also the co-coordinator of Labex REVIVE and has previously directed the CNRS UMR3738 and the Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology (BDCS). His work focuses on cell signaling, morphogenesis, and pattern formation using Drosophila as a model system.

Education:

• PhD in Developmental Biology, University Paris 6 (1990)
• Postdoctoral Fellow, University of California San Diego (1990–1993)
• Studies at École Normale Supérieure, Paris (1983–1988)

Research Interests: His research investigates the mechanisms of Notch signaling, epithelial morphogenesis, asymmetric cell division, and self-organization during development. He combines genetic, cell biological, and biophysical approaches to understand how cell fate decisions are made and how tissues are patterned during embryogenesis.

Recent Research Trends: His recent publications (2019–2024) highlight a focus on dynamic aspects of Notch signaling, pulsatile behaviors in tissue patterning, optogenetic manipulation of signaling pathways, and the role of cytoskeletal dynamics in cell fate determination. These works often involve mathematical modeling and quantitative imaging, reflecting an interdisciplinary approach to developmental biology.

Scientific Awards:

• CNRS Silver Medal (2006)
• EMBO Member (2012)
• Prix Zermati, Fondation de France (2012)
• Prix Jaffé, French Academy of Science (2005)
• Academia Europaea Member (2016)
• Prix Charles-Leopold Mayer, French Academy of Science (2015)
• Bronze Medal of the CNRS (1996)
• Prix Lebrasseur, Fondation de France (2019)

Advising and Grants: As a long-standing group leader and department head, he has mentored numerous researchers and secured sustained funding through CNRS, Labex REVIVE, and Institut Pasteur. He co-directs a Stem Cell Biology course and has led multiple research projects on epithelial morphogenesis, Notch signaling, and fate patterning.

Labs and Teams: He leads a research unit at the Institut Pasteur focused on developmental mechanisms in Drosophila. His former and ongoing projects include studies on asymmetric cell division, cell polarity, Notch biology, and self-organized patterning. The team employs advanced techniques such as optogenetics, live imaging, and genetic screening.