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-med track. His undergraduate career integrates rigorous academic work, 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 project evaluating vaccine efficacy for influenza (A and B) and SARS-CoV-2. He currently works in the Lechman Lab at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, where his research focuses on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in the context of trisomy 21. Using CRISPR gene-editing technology, his project investigates key 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 is preparing for pre-seed funding.
Beyond his research, Silas serves as an emergency medical technician in Pittsburgh, gaining hands-on clinical experience that complements his scientific training. He is also building a student-led biotech initiative designed to expand the success of his CTE project—investing in undergraduate innovation, supporting early-stage research, and fostering a more dynamic and connected research community at Pitt. This venture has already attracted support and early-stage venture capital. Silas is also a classically trained pianist and collegiate athlete on the Pitt Climbing Team, bringing the same focus and creativity 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.