معرفی
Haluk Lacin is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Biological and Biomedical Systems at the University of Missouri Kansas City (UMKC). His research focuses on understanding how neuronal lineages form functional circuits during nervous system development using Drosophila as a model. He holds a BS from Bogazici University, a PhD from Washington University in St. Louis, and completed postdoctoral training at the Janelia Research Campus. His lab employs advanced genetic tools, optogenetics, and AI-driven behavioral analysis to study neural circuit assembly and behavior. Key projects include mapping lineage-specific drivers, dissecting transcriptional networks, and linking neuronal lineages to specific behaviors like locomotion and flight take-off.
Recent achievements include securing an R01 grant transferred to UMKC and publishing a seminal paper on lineage-specific drivers in Elife. The lab actively mentors PhD students and undergraduates, with current members involved in projects like synaptic connectivity mapping and behavioral phenotyping. Collaborative efforts include global EM tracing initiatives to map the Drosophila connectome. Beyond research, Lacin values UMKC's collaborative environment and Kansas City's livability.
