Stephen Quake

Stephen Quake is the Lee Otterson Professor of Bioengineering and Professor of Applied Physics at Stanford University, and co-President of the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub. He holds a B.S. in Physics and M.S. in Mathematics from Stanford University (1991) and a Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics from the University of Oxford (1994). His research focuses on biophysics, genomics, and medical technology, particularly in developing non-invasive diagnostic tools like the first non-invasive prenatal test for Down syndrome. His innovations have revolutionized genetics and medicine through microfluidic automation and cell-free nucleic acid analysis.

Research Interests include biophysics, single-cell analysis, microfluidics, and prenatal diagnostics. His work bridges physics, engineering, and biology, with applications in healthcare, such as replacing invasive procedures with blood-based tests. Key contributions include advancements in DNA sequencing, liquid biopsies, and understanding cellular mechanisms in diseases like diabetes and neurodegeneration.

• Awards & Recognition: Not explicitly listed, but his work has received widespread acclaim for its transformative impact on medicine.
• Advising & Grants: Leads the Quake Lab and collaborates on projects funded by institutions like the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative.
• Labs & Teams: Directs the Quake Lab, focusing on biomedical innovation and cell biology.