Henry A. Lester

Henry A. Lester is a Bren Professor of Biology at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), where he has been a faculty member since 1973. His academic journey includes roles as Assistant Professor (1973–1976), Associate Professor (1976–1983), Professor (1983–2000), Bren Professor (2000–2017), and returning to Professor (2017–present). He served as Executive Officer of the Biology Division (2010–2013) and held leadership roles in national organizations like the Biophysical Society and NIMH Advisory Council.

His research focuses on neuropharmacology, particularly the 'inside-out' mechanisms of drugs like nicotine and antidepressants. Key areas include nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, Parkinson's disease, and drug biosensor technology. Lester has pioneered studies on how nicotine infiltrates cells to influence receptor upregulation, explaining addiction and delayed therapeutic effects of psychiatric drugs.

Lester holds seven patents on drug-related technologies and has secured funding from NIMH, NINDS, the Michael J. Fox Foundation, and others. His awards include the Fuller Award in Neuropharmacology and Cole Award in Membranes, plus two NINDS Javits Awards. His lab employs biophysical, genetic, and imaging techniques in mouse models to explore ion channel biology and neurodegeneration.

Publications reflect interdisciplinary approaches, emphasizing subcellular drug dynamics and sensor development. Grants and collaborations span addiction, pain, and neurological disorders. His teaching includes a popular MOOC on 'Drugs and the Brain' and undergraduate research mentorship.