Joshua Jackson

Joshua Jackson, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology & Physiology at Drexel University College of Medicine. He holds postdoctoral fellowships from the University of Pennsylvania and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia in Neuroscience and Pediatrics. His research focuses on astrocyte-neuron communication mechanisms in brain disorders with inflammatory components. He earned his PhD in Pharmacology from the University of Minnesota and a BA in Biology from Carleton College.

Education:

• PhD in Pharmacology, University of Minnesota School of Medicine
• BA in Biology, Carleton College

Research Interests: Dr. Jackson’s lab investigates astrocyte biology, neuro-glial interactions, mitochondrial dynamics, and calcium signaling. Key projects include mechanisms of astrocyte calcium clearance, neurovascular coupling regulation, and astrocytic roles in synaptic development. His work combines live-cell imaging, pharmacology, and molecular genetics.

Recent Research Trends: Recent articles explore HIV-induced neuroimmune effects, cocaine addiction mechanisms, and mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegeneration. His work bridges astrocyte metabolism with neuronal signaling in disease contexts.

Awards:

• Early Career Basic Science Investigator Award, Drexel University (2023)
• Alavi-Dabiri Postdoctoral Fellowship (2013)
• National Institutes of Health Fellowships (2004-2010)

Lab & Collaborations: The Jackson Lab is part of Drexel’s neuroscience programs. Current staff include Research Technician Kayla Green. Collaborative initiatives include ex vivo brain models and mitochondrial imaging studies.