Dr. Gustav Engbretson
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Chairman, Dept. of Biomedical & Chemical
Engineering |
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Education:
B.A. California State University, Biology
M.A. California State University, Biology
Ph.D. University of Oklahoma, Zoology
Professor Engbretson uses electrophysiological, anatomical and molecular biology techniques to study the structure and function of the retina. Most recently his research has involved incorporating transgenes into the South African Clawed frog ( Xenopus laevis ) to alter the normal cellular development and survival of rod and cone photoreceptors and to develop techniques of engineering animal models of human disease. The goals of his research are a better understanding of normal retinal development and function, and developing tools for the study of retinal degenerative diseases that are so devastating for humans. Dr. Engbretson collaborates with colleagues in the departments of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Ophthalmology at the adjacent SUNY Upstate Medical University.
Professional Memberships
American Association for the Advancement of Science
Association for Research on Vision and Ophthalmology
Biomedical Engineering Society
Society for Neuroscience
Society of Sigma Xi
Personal
Professor Engbretson complains that he doesn't have any spare time but he has been seen playing in softball leagues and pick-up basketball games, driving his '87 RX-7 in local SCCA Solo II events and running an occasional road race. He and his wife Brenda, a faculty member in the College of Health Professions at SUNY Upstate Medical University are adjusting to empty nest syndrome as both of their children are away at college.