D. Lansing Taylor, PhD
Dr. Taylor is a distinguished professor at the University of Pittsburgh. His research focuses on integrating quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) with human microphysiological systems (MPS)—such as organ-on-a-chip models—to enhance drug discovery, development, and diagnostics, particularly for complex diseases like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) type 2 diabetes, and various cancers
Dr. Taylor`s research interests have been rooted in understanding the temporal-spatial dynamics of signaling molecules and proteins in living cells, coupled to defining the mechanisms of fundamental cell functions such as cell division and cell migration. He has always integrated the development of new technologies in fluorescence-based reagents and light microscope imaging in order to improve the ability to define molecular events in cells and tissue models. His interests have evolved from single cell activities to understanding cellular population dynamics, including the biological basis for heterogeneity in response to perturbations such as drug treatments. He is also investigating populations of cancer cell models labeled with a panel of fluorescent probes of pathway nodes, organelle functions and cell health to measure, model and predict outcomes using computational and systems biology methods.
Dr. Taylor has pioneered the development of high-content imaging technologies and fluorescence-based biosensors to study cellular dynamics. His work emphasizes understanding cellular heterogeneity and modeling disease mechanisms to predict therapeutic responses. He has also contributed to reducing reliance on animal testing by advancing human cell-based models for drug toxicity and efficacy assessments.
Throughout his career, Dr. Taylor has founded several biotech companies, including Cellomics and Cernostics, to commercialize innovations in cell analysis and tissue diagnostics. His current initiatives involve developing patient-specific digital twins and biomimetic models to personalize medicine and improve clinical trial outcomes.