S. Murray Sherman, PhD
Maurice Goldblatt Professor of NeurobiologyA journey through the brain: The neuroscientist who shaped
our understanding of the brain’s circuitry
Murray Sherman at a 1979 Super Bowl Party
S. Murray Sherman, a distinguished neuroscientist, has made significant strides in unraveling the mysteries of the human brain, particularly the visual system. His groundbreaking research has reshaped our understanding of how the brain processes sensory information.
Born on January 4, 1944, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Sherman’s interest in Physics led him to pursue a Bachelor’s in Biology from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). It was during his undergraduate studies that Sherman developed the desire to study neuroscience. After graduating, he enrolled in a Ph.D. in Anatomy at the University of Pennsylvania, and his academic journey continued with postdoctoral research at the Australian National University, where he delved deeper into the intricacies of the brain.
Sherman’s career has been marked by numerous academic appointments, including professorships at the University of Virginia and, most notably, the prestigious Maurice Goldblatt Professorship of Neurobiology at the University of Chicago. At UChicago, Sherman was responsible for establishing the Department of Neurobiology, where he was the chair for 20 years. He also played a crucial role in forming the Neuroscience Institute. The goal was to establish an initial focus and strategic center for developing the field campus-wide and encourage departments other than Neurobiology to recruit neuroscientists.
His research has primarily focused on the thalamus, a critical brain region involved in sensory processing, and the thalamocortical circuitry, which plays a pivotal role in vision.
One of Sherman’s most significant contributions to neuroscience is the classification of glutamatergic pathways into “driver” and “modulator” categories. This groundbreaking concept, developed in collaboration with his long-time colleague Ray Guillery, has revolutionized our understanding of how neural circuits function. By differentiating between these two types of pathways, Sherman and Guillery have provided a new framework for interpreting complex brain activity. This dual mechanism was integral to understanding how the brain integrates sensory signals with cognitive processes such as attention and learning.
Another major area of Sherman’s research was his exploration of the thalamocortical circuits and how they relate to cognition. By investigating the anatomical and physiological properties of these circuits, Sherman provided important insights into how the brain’s sensory systems are not merely passive receivers of input but active participants in shaping perception. His work in this area has had far-reaching implications, influencing research in a variety of fields, including neurology, psychiatry, and cognitive science.
Recognitions
Dr. Sherman’s research has been widely recognized and celebrated. He has received numerous honors and awards, including a Guggenheim Fellowship and an honorary M.A. degree from Oxford University. His work has been published in leading scientific journals and has been cited extensively by other researchers.
Beyond his academic achievements, Sherman is admired for his mentorship and dedication to fostering the next generation of neuroscientists. His insightful guidance has inspired countless students and colleagues to pursue careers in brain research. He also helped to launch the first Gordon Conference on Thalamocortical Interactions in 2016.
As a pioneer in the field of neuroscience, S. Murray Sherman’s legacy will continue to shape our understanding of the human mind for years to come. His groundbreaking research and unwavering commitment to scientific discovery have paved the way for future advancements in neuroscience.