Richard H. Kramer

Richard H. Kramer is the CH and Annie Li Chair in Molecular Biology of Diseases and a Professor of Cell Biology, Development and Physiology at the University of California, Berkeley. He holds affiliations with the Graduate Group in Biophysics and the Vision Science Program. His research focuses on optical sensing and control of neural activity, particularly using photoswitch compounds to manipulate ion channels and synaptic proteins in the nervous system. Kramer's work spans basic neuroscience and translational medicine, including efforts to restore vision in blind mice via photoswitch therapies and investigating dendritic excitability in neurons.

Current projects include genetically-targeted photocontrol of ion channels, development of photoswitch drugs for retinal degeneration, and optical sensing of retinal activity. His lab explores neural circuitry in the retina, spinal cord, and brain, leveraging novel chemical tools to study synaptic transmission and neuronal communication. Key contributions include pioneering optogenetic pharmacology and advancing understanding of synaptic ribbon function in photoreceptors.

Research themes emphasize molecular mechanisms of neural signaling, therapeutic applications of light-responsive molecules, and functional plasticity in diseased neural circuits. Collaborations involve biophysical, chemical, and clinical approaches to address neurological and ophthalmological challenges.