Nicholas C. Spitzer is Distinguished Professor of Neurobiology and Co-Director of the Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind (KIBM) at the University of California, San Diego. He received his B.A. and Ph.D. at Harvard University. After postdoctoral work at Harvard and University College London he joined the UCSD faculty in 1972. His research focuses on the mechanisms of development of the nervous system, analyzing the role of electrical activity in this process and using neurophysiological, anatomical, imaging and molecular techniques to investigate the partnership of calcium signaling and gene expression. Most recently he has been studying activity-dependent specification of neurotransmitter and transmitter receptor expression. The KIBM works to bridge disciplinary boundaries to further our understanding of the origins, evolution and mechanisms of human cognition, from the brain's physical and biochemical machinery to the experiences and behaviors called the mind. It funds innovative research grants, hosts distinguished and interactive visitors, and co-sponsors workshops and seminars to increase connections between investigators in various disciplines. Spitzer has served on several NIH study sections, as a member of the NIH NINDS Council and as a Trustee of the Grass Foundation. He is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.