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Akankshi Munjal

Assistant Professor of Cell Biology
Cell Biology
371 B Nanaline Duke Bldg, Durham, NC 27710

Overview


We study principles of tissue morphogenesis using zebrafish. Our science is collaborative and crosses disciplines. Our culture is integrative and inclusive.

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Assistant Professor of Cell Biology · 2022 - Present Cell Biology, Basic Science Departments

In the News


Published January 15, 2025
Researchers Can Learn a Lot From a Fish’s Ear
Published October 10, 2023
NIH Honors Medical Scholars’ Bold Research
Published October 26, 2021
New Faculty Voices at Duke in 2021

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Recent Publications


Hydrostatic pressure as a driver of cell and tissue morphogenesis.

Journal Article Semin Cell Dev Biol · November 2022 Morphogenesis, the process by which tissues develop into functional shapes, requires coordinated mechanical forces. Most current literature ascribes contractile forces derived from actomyosin networks as the major driver of tissue morphogenesis. Recent wor ... Full text Link to item Cite

Extracellular hyaluronate pressure shaped by cellular tethers drives tissue morphogenesis.

Journal Article Cell · December 2021 How tissues acquire complex shapes is a fundamental question in biology and regenerative medicine. Zebrafish semicircular canals form from invaginations in the otic epithelium (buds) that extend and fuse to form the hubs of each canal. We find that convent ... Full text Cite
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Recent Grants


Multi-scale feedbacks for robust organ development

ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2023 - 2027

Training Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology

Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2001 - 2027

Cell and Molecular Biology Training Program

Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2021 - 2026

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Education, Training & Certifications


Marseille Developmental Biology Institute (France) · 2016 Ph.D.
National Centre for Biological Sciences (India) · 2011 M.Sc.
University of Delhi (India) · 2008 B.Sc.