- Name: Ben Barres
- Occupation: Neuroscientist
- Date of Birth: September 13, 1954
- Place of Birth: West Orange, New Jersey, USA
- Nationality: American
- Parents: Not publicly disclosed
- Siblings: Not publicly disclosed
- Spouse: Not publicly disclosed
- Children: Not publicly disclosed
- Net Worth (2024): Estimated at $5 million
- Source of Wealth: Academic career, research grants, book royalties
- Ethnicity: Caucasian
- Height: Not publicly disclosed
- Weight: Not publicly disclosed
- Notable Works: Pioneering research on glial cells, advocate for gender equality in science
Early Life and Education
Benjamin Anthony "Ben" Barres was born on September 13, 1954, in West Orange, New Jersey, as Barbara A. Barres. Despite being assigned female at birth, he felt strongly that he was a boy from an early age. Excelling in mathematics and science during his school years, Barres went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a medical degree from Dartmouth Medical School. He later pursued a residency in neurology at Weill Cornell Medicine.
Transition and Career
In 1997, Barres transitioned to male, becoming the first openly transgender scientist in the National Academy of Sciences in 2013. His groundbreaking research focused on the interaction between neurons and glial cells in the nervous system. Joining the faculty of Neurobiology at Stanford School of Medicine in 1993, he made significant contributions to the understanding of glial cells’ role in neural development, regeneration, and function. Barres was appointed Chair of Neurobiology at Stanford in 2008.
Research Contributions
Barres’s research delved into the mechanisms behind neuron-glia interactions, myelination, synapse formation, and neurodegeneration. His discoveries included signaling pathways between developing neurons and glial cells, as well as the control of oligodendrocyte development. He also investigated the role of glial cells in synapse regulation and neuronal regeneration post-trauma. Barres’s work significantly advanced the field of neurobiology and garnered recognition from prestigious institutions and awards.
Advocacy and Legacy
Barres was a vocal advocate for gender equality in the sciences, speaking out against discrimination and biases faced by women and transgender individuals. He shared his personal experiences of gender discrimination and highlighted the importance of inclusivity and diversity in scientific research. Barres’s legacy extends beyond his scientific achievements, inspiring future generations of researchers to pursue their passions and strive for excellence in their fields.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Barres received numerous awards for his research and teaching, including the Mika Salpeter Lifetime Achievement Award and the Ralph W. Gerard Prize in Neuroscience. He was elected as a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and inducted into the National Academy of Sciences. Barres co-founded Annexon Biosciences, Inc., a company focused on developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, leaving a lasting impact on the field of neuroscience.
Passing and Tribute
Benjamin Barres passed away on December 27, 2017, after battling pancreatic cancer. His contributions to the scientific community and advocacy for diversity and inclusion continue to resonate with colleagues, students, and admirers. In 2022, a feature biopic about his life, titled "Ask The Question," was announced, showcasing his remarkable journey as a pioneering transgender scientist. Barres’s legacy serves as a beacon of inspiration for those striving to make a difference in the world of science and beyond.
Financial Insights:
As of 2024, Ben Barres’s estimated net worth stands at $5 million. His wealth primarily stems from his successful academic career, research grants, and royalties from books he authored. Barres’s pioneering research and influential advocacy work have also contributed to his financial success.
Despite facing discrimination and obstacles throughout his career, Barres’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and promoting diversity in STEM has not only enriched the field of neuroscience but has also solidified his legacy as a trailblazer in both science and social progress.
