Helen Blau

Helen Blau 2013 (cropped)

Helen Blau is an American biologist renowned for her pioneering research in the field of stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. She is currently a professor at Stanford University and the director of the Baxter Laboratory for Stem Cell Biology.

Early Life and Education

Helen Blau was born in New York City. She earned her B.A. in Biology from York University in the United Kingdom. She then pursued her Ph.D. in Molecular Biology at Harvard University.

Career

Blau's career has been marked by significant contributions to the understanding of cell differentiation and cell reprogramming. She has been a faculty member at Stanford University since 1978, where she has held various positions, including the Donald E. and Delia B. Baxter Professorship.

Research

Blau's research focuses on the mechanisms that govern cell fate and plasticity. Her work has led to groundbreaking discoveries in the field of regenerative medicine, particularly in the context of muscle regeneration and tissue engineering. One of her notable achievements is the development of methods to reprogram somatic cells into pluripotent stem cells.

Awards and Honors

Helen Blau has received numerous awards for her contributions to science, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director's Pioneer Award and the American Society for Cell Biology's E.B. Wilson Medal. She is also a member of the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Personal Life

Blau is married and has two children. She is an advocate for women in science and has mentored many young scientists throughout her career.

Selected Publications

• Blau, H.M., et al. (Year). Title of the publication. Journal Name.
• Blau, H.M., et al. (Year). Title of the publication. Journal Name.

See Also

• Stem Cell Research
• Regenerative Medicine
• Cell Differentiation
• Stanford University