Nicholas Baker

Nicholas Baker, PhD is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine. His research focuses on developmental biology, particularly the molecular mechanisms of cell signaling and neurogenesis using Drosophila as a model organism. Key areas include Notch signaling pathways, genetic regulation of cell fate decisions, and the role of ribosomal proteins in cell competition and tissue homeostasis.

His work has explored how genetic mutations (e.g., split mutation in Notch) affect developmental processes, with significant contributions to understanding O-fucosylation modifications in Notch receptors. Recent studies investigate cell competition mechanisms involving transcription factors like Xrp1 and pathways such as CRL4 E3 ligase regulation.

Publications highlight investigations into ribosomal protein mutations, Drosophila eye development, and the interplay between DNA damage responses and cell survival. While no specific awards or student advisees are listed, his impactful research has been published in high-impact journals like Nature Chemical Biology and Development.