Martha R.C. Bhattacharya

Martha R.C. Bhattacharya is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Arizona, where she also serves as Faculty Director of the Vertically Integrated Projects (VIP) program. She holds a Ph.D. from UCSF, focusing on mechanotransduction under Dr. David Julius, and completed postdoctoral training at Washington University in St. Louis with Dr. Aaron DiAntonio, studying axon degeneration mechanisms. She joined the University of Arizona in 2017 and received tenure in 2023.

Her research investigates molecular mechanisms of axon degeneration using Drosophila and mouse models, with a focus on neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS and Alzheimer’s. Key discoveries include identifying MORN4 and TMEM184B as mediators of axon degeneration. Her work also explores TMEM184B’s role in itch sensation and synaptic dysfunction.

Dr. Bhattacharya has received prestigious awards, including the NSF CAREER Award and the Five Star Faculty Award for Teaching Excellence. She leads a dynamic lab mentoring numerous students and has secured NIH R01 and R21 grants. Her educational initiatives, such as the Brain Communication Networks CURE course, emphasize undergraduate research training.

Her lab collaborates widely, including with Dr. Sean Sweeney on Drosophila models, and has contributed to translational studies on TMEM184B-associated diseases. Future work includes exploring human stem cell models and advancing therapies for neurodegenerative conditions.