S. Randal Voss

S. Randal Voss serves as Professor in the Department of Neuroscience and core faculty member at the Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center (SCoBIRC) at the University of Kentucky. He directs the NIH P40-funded Ambystoma Genetic Stock Center (AGSC), a national resource distributing axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) to researchers worldwide for regeneration studies.

His academic credentials include a BS from Francis Marion University, MS from Western Carolina University, PhD from Clemson University, and postdoctoral training at UC-Davis.

Voss employs genetic, genomic, and developmental approaches to decipher salamander regeneration mechanisms for complex structures like limbs and spinal cord. His research bridges fundamental developmental biology with translational regenerative medicine, focusing on epigenetic regulation, thyroid hormone signaling, and comparative genomics to identify conserved pathways applicable to human therapies.

Analysis of his 2019 publications reveals dominant themes in axolotl genome architecture, epigenetic control of regeneration initiation, and natural product chemistry synergies. His work demonstrates strong interdisciplinary integration between molecular biology, biochemistry, and evolutionary developmental biology.

His scientific recognition includes:

• NSF CAREER Award (1999-2002)
• University of Kentucky Research Professor Award (2010)
• Francis Marion University Distinguished Alumni Award (2018)

Current research funding and scholarly activities:

• Grants: NIH (P40 Research Resource Center), Army Research Office
• Mentoring: Supervision of trainees through AGSC and SCoBIRC programs in regenerative biology
• Publications: 80+ peer-reviewed articles with emphasis on regeneration mechanisms

He leads the Ambystoma Genetic Stock Center in the Biomedical Biological Sciences Research Building, maintaining critical axolotl colonies and research infrastructure while directing a laboratory investigating genetic determinants of tissue regeneration.