Join Us for a Special Research Seminar with Dr. Douglas Robinson!

The Department of Biology at Colorado State University is proud to host Dr. Douglas Robinson, Professor of Cell Biology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, for a compelling seminar titled:

“Cellular Form: The Basis of Healthy Function”

Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Biology 136

Dr. Robinson is a leading expert in the field of cellular biomechanics and will explore how the architecture of cells underpins their physiological roles in health and disease. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain insight into cutting-edge research and connect with fellow students and professionals passionate about the life sciences.

Why Attend?

• Discover new frontiers in cell biology: Learn how cellular form drives function and what this means for treating disease.

• Network with a world-renowned scientist: Connect with Dr. Robinson and fellow attendees for inspiration and academic growth.

• Fuel your scientific curiosity: Dive deeper into interdisciplinary approaches combining biology, engineering, and medicine.

Hosted by Biology Professor Rachel Mueller, and co-sponsored by the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering.

Abstract

Our program seeks to determine how cells and tissues integrate chemical and mechanical information to guide normal growth and homeostasis with the goal of being able to guide these processes with small molecules for therapeutic purposes. To do this, our core research is focused on fundamental biomedical discovery, using genetic, biochemical, and cell biophysical approaches and small molecule screening with the model organism Dictyostelium discoideum. Initially, we focused heavily on cytokinesis as a model cell morphogenic event. Cytokinesis naturally encapsulates numerous essential aspects of cell shape control, which are at the heart of many normal and disease processes. With our mechanobiology focus, we have found several ways in which critical mechanical machinery integrates with numerous other cellular systems, including gene expression and metabolism. We also apply our knowledge, tools, and chemical matter to the study of a variety of human diseases, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. To accomplish our broad efforts, we collaborate closely with multiple engineers, scientists, and physician-scientists, creating a highly interdisciplinary ecosystem.

Visit our website for more information on our seminars and follow us on social media for more announcements from Biology.

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We look forward to seeing you there!