Robert Sapolsky

Robert Sapolsky is an American neuroscientist, biologist, and author known for his research into stress, neurodegeneration, and the behavior of primates. Born on April 6, 1957, in Brooklyn, New York, Sapolsky has spent much of his career studying the effects of stress on health and behavior, both in humans and other animals. He is a professor of biology, neurology, and neurological sciences at Stanford University, and also holds a position as a research associate at the National Museums of Kenya.

Early Life and Education

Sapolsky was raised in Brooklyn. From an early age, he showed a keen interest in biology and the natural world. He attended Harvard University, where he majored in biological anthropology, graduating summa cum laude. After Harvard, Sapolsky went to Kenya to study the social behavior and stress response in baboons. He then earned his Ph.D. in neuroendocrinology at Rockefeller University under the mentorship of Bruce McEwen.

Career

Sapolsky's work in Kenya laid the foundation for his lifelong research into stress and its effects on the body and mind. His studies of baboon societies have helped to illuminate the physiological effects of stress, including its impact on neuroplasticity, immune system function, and susceptibility to disease. At Stanford University, his research has expanded to include the study of neurodegeneration, particularly the mechanisms that lead to diseases like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

In addition to his research, Sapolsky is a prolific writer and public speaker. He has authored several popular science books, including Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers, The Trouble with Testosterone, and Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst. These works explore the biological underpinnings of stress, behavior, and disease, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a general audience.

Research Interests

Sapolsky's research interests are broad, encompassing several areas of neuroscience and biology:

• The stress response and its effects on the body and behavior
• The biology of personality and individual differences
• The mechanisms of neurodegeneration
• The social behavior of primates and its implications for human behavior

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Sapolsky has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science and education. These include the MacArthur Fellowship, often referred to as the "genius grant", and the Carl Sagan Prize for Science Popularization.

Publications

Sapolsky has written extensively for both academic and popular audiences. His books and articles cover a wide range of topics within biology and neuroscience, always with an emphasis on the implications for understanding human health and behavior.

Personal Life

Sapolsky lives in California with his family. When not teaching or conducting research, he spends his time reading, writing, and enjoying the outdoors.

See Also

• Neuroscience
• Biology
• Stress (biology)
• Neurodegeneration
• Primate