History

The Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology (ASNB), originally the Department of Anatomy, was established in 1863 under James Morrison Bodine. Sidney Kornhauser served as chairman of the department from 1922 to 1959; he developed much of the histology teaching material still in use today. He was followed by James B. Longley who served as chairman from 1962 to 1989, providing lasting support to the department by endowing the departmental seminar series. Later chairs included Fred Roisen (1989-2012) and William Guido (2012-2024), each contributing to the department’s growth and development in anatomical and neuroscience research.

In 2000, the department formally changed its name to the Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology to reflect its broadened focus on both anatomy and neuroscience, areas in which it has strong teaching and research impact. The department also houses the Fresh Tissue Dissection Laboratory, initiated by Robert Acland, whose contributions continue to support graduate education in anatomical sciences. Now, under the guidance of current chair Damian Shin, ASNB remains a foundational component of the university’s neuroscience research initiative.