Department of Cell & Developmental Biology
Learn. Discover. Make the unknown known.

We rigorously pursue answers to the fundamental questions of biological and biomedical sciences. 

 Faculty and students in lab coats examining a specimen under a microscope in a research laboratory.
Investigating and Understanding the Fundamentals of Life

Since 1854, the Department of Cell & Developmental Biology has been dedicated to guiding the next generation of leaders to pursue rigorous fundamental questions in biological and biomedical sciences with an eye on the future.

Our faculty, students and trainees pursue discovery-driven research in the disciplines of cell biology, developmental biology, genetics, neuroscience, organogenesis, stem cell biology, and tissue repair and regeneration.
Contact Us
Department of Cell & Developmental Biology
3062 Biomedical Sciences Research Bldg.
109 Zina Pitcher Place
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-2200

Email: [email protected]

CDB Internal site
ABOUT US

Explore the evolution of our Department over more than a century.
EDUCATION

We offer programs for undergraduate, graduate, and professional students, as well as post-baccalaureate and post-doctoral trainees.
PEOPLE

Meet the remarkable faculty, staff, postdoc fellows, and students of CDB.

Cell & Development Biology department in action

Watch the Cell and Development Biology department in action on campus in this short video.
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CDB Primary Faculty

 graphic: Department of cell & developmental biology ranks 6th in National Institutes of Health (NIH) research funding.

CDB ranks 6th in National Institutes of Health (NIH) research funding.
Welcome from the Chair

In CDB, we value an eclectic mix of junior, mid-career and senior faculty, of model systems and cutting-edge technologies, and of trainees at the undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate levels. By synergizing, we investigate, discover, and understand the biology that will shape the textbooks of tomorrow.

Department Chair, Cell & Developmental Biology
faculty profile pierre coulombe
Upcoming Events View all CDB Upcoming Events
PRIDE PARTY Rainbow Celebration
Join our rainbow celebration and spirit of unity to honor and support our LGBTQIA2S+ communities.
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CDB Seminar Series: "Gigaxonin, a multi-faceted performer in the nervous system, controls the Intermediate Filament cytoskeleton."
CDB Seminar Series: "Gigaxonin, a multi-faceted performer in the nervous system, controls the Intermediate Filament cytoskeleton."
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Michigan Pioneer Fellows Program Accepting Applications through August 1, 2025
Join the Michigan Pioneer Fellows program for top-tier research training, mentorship from leading scientists, and collaboration with motivated peers. This program provides a competitive salary, opportunities for career development, and practical experience that will prepare you to shape the future of science.
CDB & CMB Community Summer Picnic
The Department of Cell & Developmental Biology and Cellular and Molecular Biology team members are invited to a summer picnic on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, beginning at 4:00 PM. Join us at Island Park Shelter B for games, music, fun, food, and drinks.
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Featured News & Stories See all news Medical School faculty who received named professorships in 2024
Medical School News
Medical School celebrates faculty who received named professorships in 2024
On June 10, the University of Michigan Medical School honored the 42 faculty members who were appointed to named professorships in 2024. A named professorship is one of the highest honors bestowed on a faculty member. Medical School leadership gathered with the honorees for a reception in the Gilbert S. Omenn Atrium in the A. Alfred Taubman Biomedical Science Research Building.
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Department News
Center for Cell Plasticity and Organ Design 30th Anniversary
Pierre Coulombe, Ph.D., Chair of Cell & Developmental Biology, opened the CPOD 30th Anniversary Symposium honoring former CPOD Directors and members of the CDB Department: 🔹 Deborah Gumucio, Ph.D. 🔹 Gary Hammer, M.D., Ph.D. 🔹 Deneen Wellik, Ph.D.
Department News
Michigan Today published 'Science is a team sport'
Together, teams led by Dr. Castro and Dr. Lowenstein are pioneering hope by advancing promising gene therapy from adult trials to children with aggressive brain tumors.
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Department News
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved colleague and cherished friend, Lori Jean Mirabitur
Honoring the Life and Legacy of a Valued Colleague
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Department News
New study reveals how shedding DNA allows pro-inflammatory immune cells to quiet inflammation
The Life Sciences Institute News reported research from Carole Parent on how "the immune system’s first responders can reverse their own inflammatory response by shedding tiny pieces of their identity."
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Department News
New view of cellular delivery trucks reveals unexpected hitch
The Life Sciences Institute News reported research from the Weisman lab on how a class of proteins uses a transport system to reach their destinations in the cell.
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