Drs. Paola Arlotta and Amy Wagers Named Chair and Co-Chair for Stem Cell Regenerative Biology at Harvard University

The Harvard Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology (HSCRB) has announced that Dr. Paola Arlotta, the Golub Family Professor of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, will serve as chair of the department, and Dr. Amy Wagers, the Forst Family Professor of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology and a Harvard College Professor, will serve as co-chair. Dr. Arlotta is a NYSCF – Robertson Stem Cell Investigator Alumna, and Dr. Wagers received the NYSCF – Robertson Stem Cell Prize in 2013.

Dr. Arlotta’s lab investigates the mechanisms that control development, regeneration, and assembly of cells in the cerebral cortex. Much of her work is aimed at identifying regenerative strategies for neurodegenerative and traumatic diseases, including ALS and spinal cord injury. As chair of the HSCRB, she will work with scientists to translate their research into medical treatments.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead this cross-school department, where scientific achievement has been so consistently outstanding, and that is shaping the field of regenerative biology at Harvard,” Arlotta said.

Dr. Wagers’ lab explores the regulation and therapeutic potential of blood and muscle forming stem cells, especially in the role of aging. In her new role as co-chair of the HSCRB, she will lead efforts to maximize the impact of cross-school interactions.

“We have the world’s greatest, largest, most advanced roster of researchers all within a four-mile radius of our department, and a culture of exploration that allows us to go easily between immunology and stem cell biology or developmental biology and regenerative medicine,” Wagers said. “It is an honor to have this opportunity to strengthen our collaborations across schools and throughout the Boston biomedical community.”

Congratulations, Drs. Arlotta and Wagers!