Michael F. Wells

Michael F. Wells is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Human Genetics at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). His research focuses on discovering the foundations of human brain diversity and the mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism and intellectual disability.

Dr. Wells earned his B.S. in Biological Sciences from the University of Notre Dame in 2008, followed by a PhD in Neurobiology from Duke University in 2015 under the guidance of Dr. Guoping Feng. He completed his postdoctoral training at Harvard University and the Broad Institute in 2021, working in the laboratory of Dr. Kevin Eggan.

His research interests span Neurodevelopment, Human Genetics, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Human Variation, and Stem Cell Models. Dr. Wells employs stem cell models and other cutting-edge techniques to investigate the genetic basis of neurodevelopmental conditions. His work has significant implications for understanding human brain diversity and developing potential interventions for neurodevelopmental disorders.

Dr. Wells' publications demonstrate a strong focus on autism spectrum disorders, neurodevelopmental mechanisms, and stem cell modeling of neurological conditions. His research spans from fundamental mechanisms of brain development to translational applications for understanding and potentially treating neurodevelopmental disorders.

• Intersections Science Fellow, Yale University, 2021
• Program for Achieving Career Excellence (PACE) Rising Star, Cornell University, 2020
• K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award, National Institute of Mental Health, 2019-2024
• Rising Stars in Biomedicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2019
• Postdoctoral Enrichment Program award, Burroughs Wellcome Fund, 2018-2021
• F31 Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award for Individual Predoctoral Fellowship, National Institute of Mental Health, 2012-2015

As an early-career researcher, Dr. Wells has established a robust research program focused on understanding the genetic basis of neurodevelopmental disorders. Outside of his laboratory work, he serves as the creator and co-director of the COVID-19 National Scientist Volunteer Database (covid19sci.org), which connects scientists with health officials and decision-makers to address pandemic-related challenges. He also chairs the Society for Neuroscience (SfN) Trainee Advisory Committee and has participated in the SfN Early Career Policy Ambassador program, demonstrating his commitment to science policy and community engagement.