Robert Carrillo

Robert Carrillo is an Associate Professor of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology and Neuroscience Institute at the University of Chicago, with a joint appointment in the Committee on Neurobiology. He also serves as the Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Basic Science. His research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying neural circuit formation and function in Drosophila melanogaster.

Dr. Carrillo's educational background includes:

• BS in Cybernetics from University of California, Los Angeles (2001)
• PhD in Pharmacology from Yale School of Medicine (2009)

Dr. Carrillo's research program investigates how neural circuits are wired during development, with a particular focus on cell surface proteins in the immunoglobulin superfamily (Dprs and DIPs). His lab examines three main aspects of neural circuit formation:

• Finding the right partner(s): How neurons identify appropriate synaptic partners through "lock-and-key" mechanisms mediated by cell surface proteins
• Growing together: How synaptic connections expand to maintain proper activity after initial formation
• Compensation upon loss of a neighbor: How neurons detect and respond to perturbations in neighboring neurons through synaptic plasticity

Analysis of Dr. Carrillo's recent publications reveals a strong focus on Drosophila neural circuit development, particularly examining the roles of Dpr and DIP proteins in motor neuron targeting, synaptic plasticity, and neural wiring. His work combines genetic, biochemical, and functional approaches to uncover fundamental programs of nervous system development, with implications for understanding neurological disorders like autism spectrum disorder.

Dr. Carrillo has received numerous scientific awards and honors:

• NSF CAREER Award (2021)
• NIH R01 grant as Principal Investigator (2021-2026)
• NIH K01 grant (2017-2020)
• Ford Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship (2005-2008)
• NIH/MARC Fellowship (1998-2001)

Dr. Carrillo actively mentors students through various programs including the Neuroscience Early Training Opportunity (NEETO), Diversity Access to Research in Neuroscience (DARN), and Undergraduate Neuroscience Diversity and Outreach (UNDO). His lab has secured significant funding through NIH R01 grants, an NSF CAREER award, and participation in the University of Chicago PREP program as a Co-Principal Investigator. The Carrillo lab has made important contributions to understanding how cell surface proteins mediate neural circuit specificity and plasticity.

The Carrillo Lab, located at the University of Chicago, is a vibrant research group studying neural circuit formation in Drosophila. The lab team includes graduate students, postdocs, and technicians working collaboratively on projects related to neural wiring, synaptic plasticity, and circuit function. Dr. Carrillo is also actively involved in diversity and inclusion initiatives in neuroscience education and research.