Rebecca Heald

Dr. Rebecca Heald, Prof. at the Univ. of Calif. Berkeley, Jan2015

Rebecca Heald is a prominent cell biologist known for her significant contributions to the field of cell division and mitosis. She is a professor at the University of California, Berkeley in the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology.

Early Life and Education

Rebecca Heald received her undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of California, Santa Cruz. She then pursued her Ph.D. in Cell Biology at the Harvard University, where she conducted research on the mechanisms of cell cycle regulation.

Research and Career

Heald's research primarily focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern mitosis and cell division. Her work has provided critical insights into the role of microtubules and spindle apparatus in ensuring accurate chromosome segregation during cell division.

After completing her Ph.D., Heald conducted postdoctoral research at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) in Heidelberg, Germany. She then joined the faculty at the University of California, Berkeley, where she has established a renowned research laboratory.

Contributions to Cell Biology

Rebecca Heald's research has led to several groundbreaking discoveries in the field of cell biology. Her studies on xenopus laevis egg extracts have been particularly influential in understanding the dynamics of spindle assembly and nuclear envelope formation. She has also explored the mechanisms of size control in cells and organelles, contributing to the broader understanding of cellular organization and function.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Heald has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to science. These include the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director's Pioneer Award and election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Personal Life

Rebecca Heald is married and has two children. She is known for her dedication to mentoring young scientists and promoting diversity in the field of cell biology.

See Also

• Cell cycle
• Mitosis
• Microtubule
• Spindle apparatus
• Xenopus laevis