Ben Barres

Dr. Ben Barres

Ben Barres (September 13, 1954 – December 27, 2017) was an American neuroscientist renowned for his groundbreaking work in glial cells, neurobiology, and advocating for diversity in science. Barres was also openly transgender, and his experiences provided a unique perspective on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the scientific community.

Early Life and Education

Ben Barres was born on September 13, 1954, in West Orange, New Jersey. He completed his undergraduate degree in biology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he developed an interest in the nervous system. Barres then pursued medical training at Dartmouth Medical School before transferring to Harvard Medical School, where he earned his M.D. degree. Following medical school, Barres shifted focus towards research and completed a Ph.D. in neurobiology at Harvard University, under the mentorship of David Corey.

Career and Research

After completing his Ph.D., Barres conducted postdoctoral research at University College London in the laboratory of Martin Raff, where he began his pioneering work on glial cells. He later joined the faculty at Stanford University School of Medicine, where he spent the majority of his career. At Stanford, Barres served as the Chair of the Neurobiology Department and was a member of the Stanford Neurosciences Institute.

Barres' research fundamentally changed the understanding of glial cells, which were once thought to merely support neurons. His work demonstrated that glial cells play a crucial role in brain development, synapse formation, and the functioning of the nervous system. He was particularly known for his studies on astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes, and how these cells contribute to neurodegenerative diseases and brain injury.

Advocacy

Beyond his scientific contributions, Barres was a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in science. He openly discussed the challenges he faced as a transgender scientist and worked towards creating a more inclusive environment for underrepresented groups in STEM fields. Barres was particularly concerned with the barriers faced by women in science and was known for his efforts to combat gender bias in scientific research and academia.

Legacy

Ben Barres passed away on December 27, 2017, leaving behind a legacy that extends beyond his scientific achievements. His advocacy work has inspired ongoing discussions and efforts to improve diversity and inclusion within the scientific community. Barres' research on glial cells continues to influence the field of neurobiology, with ongoing studies building upon his discoveries.

Selected Publications

Barres authored numerous influential papers throughout his career. Some of his most notable publications include studies on the role of glial cells in the central nervous system and the mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Ben Barres received several awards and honors recognizing his contributions to neuroscience and his efforts to promote diversity in science. These accolades reflect his dual legacy as a pioneering scientist and an advocate for social change within the scientific community.