Pasko Rakic

Professor Pasko Rakic ForMemRS (cropped)

Pasko Rakic

Pasko Rakic (born July 27, 1933) is a prominent neuroscientist known for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of neurobiology. He is recognized for his research on the development of the cerebral cortex and the mechanisms underlying neurogenesis.

Early Life and Education

Pasko Rakic was born on July 27, 1933, in Yugoslavia (now Croatia). He obtained his medical degree from the University of Belgrade School of Medicine in 1958. Rakic later pursued his Ph.D. in neurophysiology at the University of Zagreb, where he conducted research on the organization of the cerebellum.

Career

Rakic's illustrious career includes serving as a faculty member at renowned institutions such as Harvard Medical School and Yale School of Medicine. At Yale, he held the position of Chair of the Department of Neurobiology and co-founded the Kavli Institute for Neuroscience.

Research Contributions

Rakic's research has significantly advanced our understanding of the development of the cerebral cortex. His studies on neuronal migration and the formation of neural circuits have had a profound impact on the field of neuroscience. Rakic's work has implications for various neurological disorders and conditions, including autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Pasko Rakic has received numerous accolades for his scientific contributions. He is a member of prestigious scientific societies such as the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Rakic has been the recipient of the Kavli Prize in Neuroscience and the National Medal of Science.

Legacy

Pasko Rakic's research legacy continues to inspire future generations of neuroscientists. His pioneering work in neurobiology has laid the foundation for further exploration into the complexities of the brain and its development.