S. Lawrence Zipursky

S. Lawrence Zipursky is a Professor in the Department of Biological Chemistry at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles. His research focuses on uncovering the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying neural circuit assembly and synaptic specificity. He utilizes Drosophila melanogaster and mouse models to explore how cell recognition molecules and neural activity regulate precise neuronal connections during development.

• Institution: University of California, Los Angeles
• School: David Geffen School of Medicine
• Department: Biological Chemistry

Research Interests: Zipursky’s work investigates genetically hardwired mechanisms in the fly visual system and experience-dependent wiring in the mouse cortex. His lab employs genetic, genomic, and molecular biology approaches to study synaptic specificity, dendritic patterning, and transcriptional regulation during neurodevelopment.

Publications: Recent studies include molecular pathways in synaptic self-avoidance, Dscam/protocadherin interactions in neural circuits, and vision-dependent maturation of cortical neurons. Collaborative projects with Josh Trachtenberg (UCLA) and Karthik Shekhar (UC Berkeley) integrate live imaging, transcriptomics, and genetic tools.