Center for Muscle Biology

Director

Karyn A. Esser, Ph.D. took over from Dr. Mike Reid as the new Director of the Center for Muscle Biology on 1 July, 2010. She is a full Professor in the Department of Physiology and a well established basic science researcher. She has published more than 50 peer-reviewed manuscripts and is currently the Principal Investigator on two R01 projects and one Challenge Grant. Much of her current research focuses on intracellular signaling during skeletal muscle hypertrophy and the role of clock genes in striated muscle. Dr. Esser has served both as a member and a Chair of several NIH study sections and is currently an Associate Editor of the Journal of Applied Physiology.

Co-Director

Charlotte Peterson, Ph.D. is Professor and Associate Dean for Research in the College of Health Sciences. Dr. Peterson is an internationally-recognized authority on stem cell biology in skeletal muscle and the sarcopenia of aging. She is principal investigator on three NIH-funded projects, past chair of multiple NIH study sections, recipient of numerous research awards, and the author of fifty-two peer-reviewed publications. Her expertise in translational research strengthens Center initiatives and her knowledge of Medical Center activities broadens opportunities for Center involvement. Dr. Peterson works with Dr. Esser to administer the program and directly oversees activities of the Translational Science Advisory Board.

Executive Council