Rob Lauzon

Rob Lauzon is a Professor of Biological Sciences at Union College, specializing in programmed cell death (PCD) and programmed cell clearance (PCC) in colonial ascidians. His research focuses on understanding these processes in Botryllus schlosseri, a marine chordate, to explore their roles in development, regeneration, and homeostasis. His teaching includes courses such as Cellular Foundations of Life, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, and Immunology.

• Education:
  • B.S. from McGill University
  • Ph.D. from Queen’s University

Dr. Lauzon’s research integrates cellular and molecular approaches to study PCD/PCC in regenerative systems. His lab investigates how these processes interact with stem cell-dependent organogenesis in ancestral chordates. Key themes include apoptosis regulation, phagocyte dynamics, and cyclical tissue renewal. His work provides insights into chronic inflammation, autoimmune disease mechanisms, and evolutionary developmental biology.

Publications span over three decades, emphasizing apoptosis mechanisms in both model organisms and clinical contexts. Notable contributions include identifying genes involved in asexual organogenesis and elucidating cyclical degeneration-regeneration cycles in colonial ascidians.

Teaching focuses on foundational biological concepts and advanced topics in immunology and molecular biology. He advises student research projects in cell biology and marine developmental systems.