Bing Ye, PhD

My laboratory investigates how neurons assemble into neural networks and how defects in this process lead to brain disorders. The focus of our research is to address:
1. how neuronal development contributes to the assembly and function of the nervous system;
2. how defects in this process lead to brain disorders

I have a broad interest in neuroscience, which includes how neurons develop dendrites and axons into distinct subcellular compartments, how neurons form specific connections to build neural networks, how information is processed through neural networks, and how an animal’s experience interacts with the genome to shape neural networks. Moreover, we combine the strength of Drosophila and mouse systems to study the role of dysregulated expression of genes (e.g., in Down syndrome) in brain disorders.

We take a multi-disciplinary approach that include genetics, cell biology, developmental biology, biochemistry, advanced imaging (for neuronal structures and activity), electrophysiology, computation (including machine learning and computer vision), and behavioral studies.

I am committed to training future scientists, promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, and providing safe and supportive research environments. I mentored many people, ranging from middle school students to junior faculty. I volunteer to teach science to kids, including those in economically challenged areas around Ann Arbor. I also served as the co-Chair of a graduate program, and is currently the director of Perrigo Undergraduate Summer Fellowship Program.

1. The assembly and function of neural networks.
2. The development of neurons.
3. Mechanisms and therapeutics of neurodevelopmental diseases.
4. Artificial intelligence tools for analyzing behavior.