Physical Biology of Developing Systems Lab

We aim to understand space and time mechanisms of patterning in vertebrate embryonic tissues. For this purpose, we combine 1- quantitative state-of-art microscopy, 2- single cell level analysis of signal dynamics, and 3- data-informed predictive modeling of systems level biophysics. Zebrafish with its translucent, accessible, and multiplexed early embryonic development as well as tractable genetics is our favorite model organism! Broader vision of our research is discovering the conserved mechanisms of sequential segmentation across vertebrates and design principles of morphogen positional information in embryos. We are located at McMaster University.

Underlying Principles of Somitogenesis

How do vertebrate embryonic cells make repetitive decisions? What controls the robustness of embryo patterning during somite segmentation?

Systems Control of Morphogen Signaling

How do cells sense their position in an embryo? How do cells both create and interpret positional information through diffusive morphogens?

People

M. Fethullah Simsek

Assistant Professor of Biology

McMaster University

Muhammed is a physicist by training from his alma mater Middle East Technical University in Ankara, Turkey. He holds a Ph.D. from Physics Department of University at Buffalo and did postdoctoral research under the supervision of Prof. Ertuğrul M. Özbudak, at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, NY and Cincinnati Children's Hospital.

Future Shoal Member

A curious mind puzzled with the wonders of the living systems!

Contact Us

pBODS Lab will be opening in January, 2024! We have positions open for graduate students as well as undergraduate research. If you are interested in joining pBODS lab, please send us an email including three things: 1- your CV, 2- a brief description of your past research exposure, 3- a brief answer for "what did you find interesting in this lab and how does it align with your future plans?" No prior research experience is required for undergraduate students.

Prospective undergraduate students: You can join the lab as part of 3rd and 4th year independent research projects and theses. Don't miss the Biology Thesis/Research Info Night on Thursday, October 20, 2023 in the Department to learn more about ongoing research!

Prospective graduate students: Please apply through the School of Graduate Studies for either Master's or Ph.D. admission. Note the application deadlines for For Fall 2025 start date: January 31st, 2024 (for international students) and May 31st, 2024 (for students from Canada). Please inquire for other entry dates.

  • Address

    Life Sciences Building
    McMaster University
    1280 Main Street West
    Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1
    Canada
  • Email

    mfsimsek@mcmaster.ca
  • Phone

    (000) 000-0000
  • Social