Silas Davidson
SCD86@pitt.edu / 412-537-8904
Silas Davidson is a junior in the David C. Frederick Honors College at the University of Pittsburgh, where he is pursuing a degree in Biological Sciences on the pre-medical track. His undergraduate career integrates rigorous academic training, translational research, and front-line clinical experience in preparation for a future as a physician-scientist.
Silas began his research training with the Duke University School of Medicine, contributing to a CDC-sponsored study evaluating vaccine effectiveness for influenza (A and B) and SARS-CoV-2. He currently conducts research in the Lechman Lab at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, where his work focuses on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in the context of trisomy 21. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing, his project investigates therapeutic targets in leukemia stem cells, contributing to ongoing manuscript preparation. In 2025, Silas was awarded a $50,000 University Innovation Institute grant for his independent project, “Rebuilding Neurons: MAP1B as a Therapeutic Candidate in CTE,” which explores microtubule stabilization as a treatment avenue in chronic traumatic encephalopathy. This project is generating pre-clinical data and preparing for pre-seed validation funding.
Building on this work, Silas co-founded Control Group, a student-led biotech venture studio that transforms undergraduate research ideas into fundable biotech companies. Control Group provides microgrants, mentorship, and compliance infrastructure to help student researchers secure external funding and IP protection. The initiative will launch pilot projects across Pitt and CMU, positioning Silas and his co founders as some of the youngest biotech founders in Pittsburgh’s growing innovation ecosystem. Visit controlgrouplabs.org to learn more
Outside the lab, Silas serves as an emergency medical technician in Pittsburgh, gaining hands-on clinical experience that complements his scientific training. He is also a classically trained pianist and collegiate athlete on the Pitt Climbing Team, bringing the same precision, creativity, and endurance from his artistic and athletic pursuits to his work in science and medicine.
His favorite author is Edith Wharton. His favorite musician is Otis Redding.