Timothy Downing

Timothy Downing, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of California, Irvine (UCI). He leads the Downing Lab, affiliated with UCI's Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Edwards Lifesciences Foundation Cardiovascular Innovation and Research Center (CIRC), and the NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research (CMCF). His research focuses on epigenetic regulation, mechanobiology, and regenerative engineering. The lab develops molecular tools and biomaterials to control cell fate through synthetic epigenome modulation, with applications in heart regeneration, tissue longevity, and cancer research.

Key research themes include understanding epigenetic changes during development and disease, particularly via non-sequence DNA modifications. The lab integrates biophysical cues with molecular mechanisms to engineer cells and tissues, emphasizing biomaterial design and systems biology approaches. Downing's work bridges fundamental science and translational medicine, addressing challenges in regenerative therapies and disease modeling.

His recent articles highlight advancements in chromatin structure modeling, DNA methylation dynamics, and mechanosensitive therapies. Collaborations span biomaterials engineering, immunology, and genetic disorders. The Downing Lab is located in the Core Lab on the 6th floor of ISEB, reflecting its interdisciplinary focus.