Simone Mader

PD Dr. Simone Mader is a Junior Group Leader and neuroimmunologist at the Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital and Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich. She is also an Instructor at the same institute and a full member of the Graduate School of Systemic Neuroscience (GSN). Her research is centered on CNS-reactive autoantibodies in autoimmune neurological disorders such as Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD), multiple sclerosis, and cerebellar ataxia.

Education:

• Bachelor in Biology, Leopold-Franzens University, Innsbruck (2001–2005)
• Master in Molecular Biology, Leopold-Franzens University (2005–2007)
• PhD in Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck (2008–2011)
• Venia Legendi (Habilitation) awarded in 2022

Her research focuses on identifying novel CNS-reactive autoantibodies and understanding their role in neuronal and glial dysfunction. She employs advanced techniques like single-cell sorting, immunoprecipitation, and live neuronal cultures. Her work bridges mechanistic insights with clinical applications, aiming at biomarker discovery and therapeutic interventions.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on autoantibody pathogenesis in demyelinating diseases, B cell biology, maternal antibody transfer, and novel antigen discovery. Her work frequently involves collaborations with clinical teams and international research groups.

Scientific Awards:

• Early Career Investigator Award, National Ataxia Foundation (2023)
• Eureka Grant, The Guthy-Jackson Charitable Foundation (2022)
• Young Investigator Fund, Schering Stiftung (2019)
• Autism Society Award for best manuscript (2017)
• Ursula & Fritz Melchers PhD Award (2012)

Dr. Mader has successfully secured funding from diverse sources including Novartis, Else Kröner Fresenius Stiftung, and the Guthy-Jackson Foundation. She mentors several PhD and master’s students and leads an active research team. Her lab collaborates closely with AG Meinl and clinical neuroimmunology groups, contributing significantly to the understanding of antibody-mediated CNS diseases.