The Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy is based in Tupper Hall on the Davis Campus, but our members have laboratories in Davis and on the Sacramento Campus. Visit our resources and facilities page for more information on research laboratories and facilities.

Our Mission

  • Conduct world-class research in cell and developmental biology.
  • Excel in undergraduate, graduate and medical education in biology and the anatomical sciences.
  • Serve the university through leadership in forums committed to graduate and professional school admissions and curriculum.

Research Interests

Research interests in the department include:

  • Stem Cell Biology
  • Developmental and Reproductive Biology
  • Cancer Biology
  • Vision Science
  • Intracellular Trafficking and Cell-matrix Interactions
  • Development of the Nervous System

Funding of Research Programs

Our research programs are funded by:

  • The National Institutes of Health
  • The National Science Foundation
  • The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine
  • Several Private Agencies

Learn more about research

Education

Some of the courses our members teach include:

Undergraduate Courses:

  • Human Anatomy (CHA101)

Professional Student Courses:

  • Human Architecture and Function MDS 471
  • Brain and Behavior MDS477

Faculty also offer graduate-level courses through graduate groups, lead Freshman Seminars and offer research credit to undergraduates, graduate students and professional students.

Learn more about teaching

Our Faculty: Leaders in Education

The department was recently recognized by the School of Medicine for its “excellence in commitment to education.” Read more in our teaching section.

Members of the department are leaders in the UC Davis Academic Senate and Academic Federation, and are active participants in graduate groups and faculty committees.