Sean Palecek
Credentials: PhD
Position title: Milton J. and A. Maude Shoemaker Professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering
Dr. Palecek’s research seeks to dissect cellular signaling networks (focusing on mechano-transduction pathways), and characterize how quantitative changes in the flow of signals can control a wide variety of cellular processes. In particular, he studies how cell-cell adhesive interactions affect disease pathogenesis and how adhesive and mechanical signals combine with chemical signals to regulate stem cell fate choices. Specific to voice, Palecek has been actively involved in the differentiation of embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells into vocal fold epithelial cells. He has helped establish these cells so they can be used to study vocal fold epithelial cell behavior and used in a 3D vocal fold mucosal model.