Dr. Sean Carroll is a distinguished evolutionary biologist whose pioneering work has transformed our understanding of evolutionary developmental processes. He currently holds the prestigious Andrew and Mary Balo and Nicholas and Susan Simon Chair of Biology at the University of Maryland, where he serves as Distinguished University Professor. His career includes significant leadership roles as former Head of HHMI Tangled Bank Studios and leader of the Department of Science Education from 2010 to 2023. Previously, he established his foundational research program as Professor of Genetics and Molecular Biology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he now maintains emeritus status.
Dr. Carroll's groundbreaking research has fundamentally advanced the field of evolutionary developmental biology by elucidating how genes regulate animal body patterns and drive the evolution of animal diversity. His laboratory pioneered the study of cis-regulatory elements in gene expression, demonstrating how changes in these regulatory modules generate morphological novelty across species. Through innovative work with Drosophila as a model system, his team revealed the genetic mechanisms underlying the evolution of animal form, establishing foundational principles for understanding biodiversity. More recently, his research has expanded to investigate biochemical novelties including the origin and evolution of snake venom toxins.
Recognized with the Benjamin Franklin Medal in Life Sciences and election to both the National Academy of Sciences and the American Philosophical Society, Dr. Carroll has profoundly shaped evolutionary biology through both discovery and education. His acclaimed books including The Serengeti Rules and A Series of Fortunate Events have brought evolutionary concepts to broad audiences, complementing his scientific contributions with exceptional science communication. As an educator, he has received the Stephen Jay Gould Prize for advancing public understanding of evolution and the Viktor Hamburger Outstanding Educator Award from the Society for Developmental Biology. Dr. Carroll continues to lead innovative research while mentoring the next generation of evolutionary biologists through his laboratory and educational initiatives.
