Stephanie Woo

Stephanie Woo is an Associate Professor in the Department of Bioengineering at the University of California, Merced. Her research focuses on understanding dynamic cellular processes such as cell migration and adhesion during gastrointestinal epithelium formation in zebrafish embryos. She employs cutting-edge optogenetic tools like TAEL systems for precise gene expression control, contributing to advancements in developmental biology and molecular engineering.

Key research areas include endoderm development, epithelial morphogenesis, and the role of signaling pathways such as Nodal and Slit-Robo in embryonic patterning. Her work bridges molecular genetics with biophysical mechanisms, leveraging zebrafish as a model system for studying developmental processes.

• Recipient of the NSF CAREER Award (2022) for research on contact inhibition of locomotion in endoderm positioning.
• Developed optogenetic systems (TAEL/C120) for spatiotemporal control of gene expression in zebrafish.
• Explores interactions between Glypican4, Mmp14, and extracellular matrix in regulating cell migration.

Publications emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, integrating genetics, cell biology, and bioengineering to elucidate mechanisms underlying tissue organization and disease relevance.