Tools for Analyzing and Controlling Biological Systems- Dr. Ed Boyden

Recording of the meeting held on April 13 2022

Dr. Ed Boyden develops new tools for probing, analyzing, and engineering brain circuits. He uses a range of approaches, including synthetic biology, nanotechnology, chemistry, electrical engineering, and optics to develop tools capable of revealing fundamental mechanisms underlying complex brain processes. He pioneered the development of optogenetics, a powerful method that enables neuronal activity to be controlled with light.

He also led the team that invented expansion microscopy, in which a specimen is embedded in a gel that swells as it absorbs water, thereby expanding nanoscale features to a size where they can be seen using conventional microscopes. He is now seeking to systematically integrate these technologies to create detailed maps and models of brain circuitry.

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Meeting Minutes

• Welcome address by Dr. Angela Kruse
• Science talk by Dr. Ed Boyden
• Community discussion