Mark Slabodnick

Mark Slabodnick is an Assistant Professor of Biology at Knox College, where he has led research on single-cell regeneration since 2020. His work centers on Stentor coeruleus, a giant unicellular organism capable of precise morphological regeneration after injury, bridging cell biology, genetics, and developmental principles.

Dr. Slabodnick's educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Biology, University of California, San Francisco (2014)
• B.S. in Biology, Ohio State University (2007)

His research investigates how single cells generate complex anatomy through genetic and molecular mechanisms. By studying Stentor coeruleus's remarkable regeneration capabilities—where physically cut fragments fully rebuild missing structures—the lab uncovers fundamental principles of cellular morphogenesis. This work combines cell biology, molecular genetics, and advanced microscopy to explore how genes orchestrate complex cellular architecture without multicellular coordination.

Publications demonstrate consistent contributions to understanding protist genomics, morphogenesis, and wound healing, with key papers in Current Biology and PLoS Biology highlighting Stentor's unique regenerative biology and genomic features.

Notable recognitions include:

• NIH F32 Postdoctoral Fellowship (2016-2018)
• ARCS Fellowship at UCSF (2011-2013)
• Ohio State University Honors Scholarship (2006)

As an Assistant Professor at a liberal arts college, Dr. Slabodnick actively mentors undergraduates in research, integrating classroom teaching with laboratory discovery. His grant history demonstrates strong potential for securing competitive funding, and his focus on a unique model organism positions the lab for continued contributions to cellular regeneration research.

The research program provides a dynamic environment for students to engage in cutting-edge investigations of single-cell complexity, utilizing advanced microscopy and molecular techniques to explore fundamental questions in cell biology and regeneration.