Stephen T. Smale

Stephen T. Smale is a Distinguished Professor at UCLA, holding dual appointments in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics (MIMG) and the David Geffen School of Medicine. He joined UCLA in 1990 as an Assistant Professor, became a full Professor in 1999, and was named Distinguished Professor in 2014. His research focuses on molecular mechanisms of pro-inflammatory gene regulation, chromatin structure, and innate immunity. Smale has held leadership roles, including Vice Dean for Research in the David Geffen School of Medicine (2015–2021) and Senior Director-Scientific Officer at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (2021–2025).

Education:

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, University of California, Berkeley (1986)
• A.B. in Chemistry, Cornell University (1981)

Research Interests:

Smale’s lab explores gene regulation in inflammation, molecular immunology, stem cell biology, and leukemogenesis. Key areas include transcription factor networks (e.g., NF-κB), chromatin dynamics, and signaling pathways that govern immune responses to pathogens. His work bridges basic science and translational research, including roles in cancer and stem cell biology.

Awards:

• AAAS Fellow (2020)
• Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator (1990–2007)
• Helen Hay Whitney Postdoctoral Fellowship (1986–1989)
• Sherie L. and Donald G. Morrison Chair in Molecular Immunology (2014)

Grants & Leadership:

Smale directed initiatives such as the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Basic and Translational Research program and the UCLA-Caltech Medical Scientist Training Program. He currently serves on editorial boards for Immunity, Genes & Development, and Trends in Immunology.