Find Academic Supervisors

• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Motor Neuron Disease (MND)
• Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
• +7 more

Dr. Rebecca San Gil is a Lecturer at the School of Medical Sciences , University of Sydney, Australia. She leads the NeuroMolecular Discovery Group within the Neuroscience theme and is a member of the Charles Perkins Centre . Her research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases such as motor neuron disease (MND) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) , with an emphasis on protein aggregation, stress responses, and therapeutic discovery. PhD, University of Wollongong (2018) Postdoctoral Research, Queensland Brain Institute (2018–2025) Endeavour Research Fellow (University College London) Her research spans molecular biology , neurosciences , and biochemistry , integrating techniques like genome-wide CRISPR screening , multi-omics analysis , and translational research . Key themes include the role of molecular chaperones , heat shock response , and protein folding dynamics in mitigating neurodegeneration. Dr. San Gil’s recent publications (2016–2025) highlight her work on TDP-43 pathology , heat shock proteins , and therapeutic strategies across ALS/FTD models. She has received awards such as the FightMND Early Career Research Fellow and the Sydney Dementia Network Future Research Leader Award (Travel Support Scheme) in 2025. Scientific Awards : FightMND Early Career Research Fellow, Sydney Dementia Network Future Research Leader Award (2025) Dr. San Gil actively mentors researchers like Celine CHYE and collaborates with institutions globally. Her team welcomes new members to explore neurodegenerative disease biology and therapeutic discovery .

Mark D. NobleView profile

Professor

• Stem Cell Biology
• Neuroscience
• Oncology
• +6 more

Mark D. Noble is a pioneering Professor (Part-Time) in the Department of Biomedical Genetics at the University of Rochester School of Medicine , with concurrent appointments in Neurology, Neurobiology and Anatomy. He co-discovered the first CNS precursor cell in 1983 and directs the University of Rochester Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute . His career spans institutions including Stanford University and University College London. Ph.D., Genetics, Stanford University (1977) B.S., Biology & Philosophy, Franklin & Marshall College (1971) Post-doctoral: MRC Neuroimmunology Project, University College London (1977-1981) Research Focus : Dr. Noble's work bridges stem cell biology , neuroscience , and oncology . His lab discovered the redox/Fyn/c-Cbl pathway , revealing how oxidative states regulate stem cell function and cancer progression. Key contributions include chemobrain mechanisms , lysosomal dysfunction therapies , and pharmacological approaches for nerve injuries. His team developed 4-aminopyridine applications for nerve repair and diagnosis. Collaborative Impact : Working with Drs. Chris Proschel and Margot Mayer-Pröschel, he advanced astrocyte transplantation for spinal cord and Parkinson's injury. His work on cancer stem cells in glioblastoma and basal-like breast cancer identified novel therapeutic targets through Cool-1/β-pix inhibition of c-Cbl. Patents & Mentorship : Dr. Noble holds 15 patents and consults for biotech companies. His lab has mentored graduate students like Ludia Pack , Yunpeng Pang , and Neal Shah , while driving research on metabolic regulation of stem cells and translational medicine .

• Neuroscience
• Extracellular Matrix Biology
• Synaptic Plasticity
• +5 more

Prof. Dr. Alexander Dityatev is a Group Leader at the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) in Magdeburg, Germany, where he leads research on the extracellular matrix (ECM) in brain function. His work establishes critical connections between ECM dynamics and neural processes including synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory formation. Dr. Dityatev's research focuses on: ECM regulation of voltage-dependent L-type Ca2+ channels, NMDA receptors, and Ca2+-dependent K+ channels ECM changes in aging brains, depression, dementia, and schizophrenia models Matrix metalloproteinases (ADAMTS4/5, MMP-9) and their regulation by dopaminergic/serotonergic systems Development of ECM-targeted therapies for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders His laboratory employs advanced techniques including in vivo 2-photon microscopy, AAV-based fluorescent probes, and virtual environment systems to investigate neural network dynamics and quadripartite synapses. Dr. Dityatev advocates for combined therapeutic approaches that integrate ECM targeting with cognitive training for advanced neurodegenerative conditions. His publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to understanding the dual role of ECM as both a promoter of structural/functional plasticity and a stabilizer of neural microcircuits - aspects critically important for mental health and neurological function. Dr. Dityatev's research has significant translational implications for treating Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, tauopathies, vascular dementia, epilepsy, and depression through novel ECM-modulating strategies.

• Neuroscience
• Neuroimaging
• Biomedical Engineering
• +3 more

Malika Datta is a Research Fellow in Neuroscience at Yale School of Medicine, Yale University. Her work focuses on advanced neuroimaging techniques and molecular mechanisms in neuroscience. She holds appointments in the Neuroscience department and contributes to interdisciplinary research in biomedical engineering and pharmacology. Her research interests include light-sheet microscopy innovation for large-scale biological imaging, dopaminergic system analysis under drug exposure, and genome editing via focused ultrasound. She has published extensively on topics such as Norrin-mediated astroglia-neuron interactions and optogenetic systems development. Recent publications highlight her contributions to scalable microscopy technologies and brain mapping methodologies. Her work bridges engineering and basic neuroscience, with applications in drug impact studies and neurotechnology. No scientific awards are explicitly mentioned in the provided information.

Alfonso AraqueView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Neural-Glial Signaling
• Astrocyte Biology
• +2 more

Prof. Alfonso Araque is a renowned Spanish neuroscientist currently serving as a Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Minnesota, USA (since 2013). A member of the Academy of Europe (elected 2010), his career spans prestigious institutions including CSIC (Spain) and Iowa State University (USA). His work focuses on neuron-glial signaling and synaptic dynamics, revolutionizing understanding of glial roles in brain function. Research contributions: Tripartite synapse (1999), astroglia-dependent synaptic plasticity (2007), endocannabinoid signaling (2008) Membership: Academia Europaea, Spanish Society for Neuroscience (SENC) His research has been published in top-tier journals (Nature, Science, Neuron), cited over 2400 times. Key themes include neuroglial interactions, astrocyte biology, and synaptic modulation mechanisms. 2008 Pfizer Foundation Award 2007 Federation of European Neuroscience Societies Scientific Highlight Previously held leadership roles in SENC (Treasurer 2009-2011, Vice-President 2011-2013) and served on evaluation committees in Spain and France. His work challenges traditional neuronal-centric views of brain circuits.

Barbara KartenView profile

Professor

• Cholesterol Metabolism
• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Mitochondrial Biology
• +3 more

Barbara Karten is a Professor and Department Head of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine. She holds a PhD from Karl-Franzens University Graz. Her research focuses on cholesterol metabolism in the brain, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases like Niemann-Pick Type C (NPC) disease. Key areas include mitochondrial cholesterol import, synaptic dysfunction in NPC1 deficiency, and lipid trafficking mechanisms. Education: PhD, Karl-Franzens University Graz Research Interests: Cholesterol homeostasis in neurons and glial cells Role of mitochondrial cholesterol in neurodegeneration Mechanisms of NPC1 protein in endosomal-lysosomal pathways Impact of cholesterol imbalances on synaptic function Her lab investigates how cholesterol distribution defects contribute to neuronal energy deficits and synaptic failure in NPC disease. Awards: None explicitly listed in the text. Advising & Grants: Current students include Jena Barter (MSc), Stanley Ibeh (PhD), and Emma Williams (Honours). Funding sources are not detailed here, but research aligns with NIH/CIHR priorities in neurodegenerative disease. Labs/Teams: Her lab is part of Dalhousie’s Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, collaborating with groups in the Faculty of Medicine. A lab website is available for further details.

Frank KirchhoffView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Neurophysiology
• Molecular and cellular neurobiology
• +4 more

Frank Kirchhoff is a Full Professor (W3) and Head of the Department of Molecular Physiology at the University of Saarland, Homburg, Germany. He has previously held leadership roles as Research Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine and as Lecturer at the Free University of Berlin. University of Saarland (2009-present) Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine (2000-2009) Free University of Berlin (1997-2008) Education: Diploma in Biochemistry, University of Heidelberg (1985) PhD in Neurobiology, University of Heidelberg (1990) Research Focus Frank Kirchhoff specializes in neuroscience and molecular physiology , with a focus on glial cells, neuron-glia communication, and in vivo imaging techniques. His work uses transgenic mouse models to explore brain function and pathologies. Publication Trends His recent publications emphasize glial heterogeneity , energy metabolism , and in vivo imaging , demonstrating expertise in molecular and cellular neurobiology through innovative genetic and pharmacological approaches. Scientific Contributions Kirchhoff has received notable fellowships including Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds and Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes . He served as Visiting Professor in Romania and Brazil and coordinates the EU-GliaPhD and DFG Priority Programme SPP 1757 on glial heterogeneity. Labs & Collaborations As Head of the Department of Molecular Physiology, Kirchhoff leads research integrating transgenic models and in vivo microscopy . He collaborates with institutions like the Achucarro Basque Center of Neuroscience (Spain) and contributes to editorial boards of journals including GLIA and Journal of Chemical Neuroanatomy .

Colin SaldanhaView profile

Professor

• Neuroendocrinology
• Neuroplasticity
• Neuroscience
• +3 more

Colin Saldanha is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at American University, focusing on neuroendocrinology, neuroplasticity, and estrogen signaling mechanisms in the brain. His research explores compartment-specific hormone synthesis and its impact on learning, memory, and neuroprotection. PhD in Biopsychology, Columbia University BA in Biology & Psychology, Gustavus Adolphus College Current research investigates synaptocrine signaling , where estrogen is synthesized in synaptic boutons and astroglia to regulate neural function. His work spans neuroinflammation, brain injury recovery, and avian behavioral endocrinology. Recent publications (2010-2011) analyze neurochemical pathways in songbirds, synaptic hormone delivery, and steroid assay methodologies. Trends include estrogen's role in neuroprotection , aggression-related neuroendocrinology , and avian cognitive studies . Scientific Recognition Hillman Award for Graduate Advising Nominee (2010) Stabler Award for Excellence in Teaching (2006) Libsch Early Career Research Award (2005) Lindback Foundation Minority Faculty Award (2003) Grants include NIH RO1 funding (2002-2013) for synaptic aromatase research and NSF support (2011-2013) for neuroendocrinology meetings. His lab trains graduate researchers like Kelli Duncan and Bradley Walters.

• Metabolic Physiology
• Energy Homeostasis
• Obesity
• +7 more

Yann Ravussin is a Maître d'enseignement et de recherche (equivalent to Assistant Professor) at the University of Fribourg, Switzerland, within the Faculty of Science and Medicine, Section of Medicine. He is affiliated with the Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular System (EMC), where he conducts research on metabolic regulation, obesity, and energy homeostasis. His research focuses on metabolic physiology, including energy balance, thermoregulation, glucose metabolism, and the role of adipose tissue in health and disease. Key areas include the physiological responses to overfeeding, cold exposure, and weight perturbation, as well as circadian influences on metabolism and sleep. His work often uses rodent models to investigate leptin signaling, β-cell function, and hepatic lipid metabolism. The trends in his recent publications (2014–2024) reflect a strong emphasis on metabolic adaptation, with increasing attention to human applications such as gestational diabetes, personalized thermoregulation, and nutrition-related cardiovascular responses. His interdisciplinary approach spans endocrinology, neuroscience, and biomedical engineering, particularly in developing glucose monitoring technologies. While no formal scientific awards are listed, his publications in high-impact journals such as Cell Metabolism , Diabetes , and Obesity indicate significant scholarly contributions. He advises graduate students and likely mentors doctoral candidates, though specific names are not publicly listed. His research has been supported by institutional and national funding, enabling long-term studies on metabolic regulation. Dr. Ravussin is actively involved in research infrastructure, particularly in metabolic phenotyping and sensor development. His work contributes to understanding the biological mechanisms underlying obesity and metabolic disease, with implications for therapeutic interventions and personalized medicine.

Dmitri RusakovView profile

Professor

• Synaptic Plasticity
• Neuroscience
• Astroglia in Neural Circuits
• +3 more

Dmitri Rusakov is a Professor of Neuroscience at the Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London . His research focuses on synaptic plasticity, astroglial signaling, and neural network dynamics. He has held prestigious fellowships including Wellcome Trust Principal Research Fellowships (2013–now, 2018) and European Research Council Advanced Grant (2012). Rusakov pioneered studies on astrocyte-neuron interactions, glutamate dynamics, and calcium signaling in situ. Research Themes : Synaptic machinery, diffuse signaling beyond synapses, astroglial roles in neural circuits Key Techniques : Fluorescence imaging, computational modeling, electrodiffusion analysis Publication Trends : Over 15 years, his work emphasizes astrocyte signaling , synaptic glutamate dynamics , calcium homeostasis , and in silico modeling . He explores how astroglia modulate synaptic plasticity and neural rhythms through GABA waves, Ca2+ gradients, and membrane recycling. Recent articles address methodological challenges in fluorescence sensor calibration and neurovascular coupling. Scientific Awards All-Ukraine Young Physicists Olympiad First Prize (1976, 1977) Medical Research Council UK Career Development Award (1999) Wellcome Trust Senior Research Fellowship (2003, 2008) Academia Europaea membership (2012) ERC Advanced Grant (2012) Wellcome Trust Principal Research Fellowship (2013, 2018) Collaborations span institutions including PNAS USA, Neuron, Nature, and Science journals. His career spans roles at UCL, Open University, Bogomoletz Institute, and international visiting positions.

Benedikt BerningerView profile

Professor

• Neurodevelopment
• Neurogenesis
• Cellular Reprogramming
• +3 more

Professor Benedikt Berninger is a Professor of Developmental Neurobiology at King's College London, affiliated with the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) and the Centre for Developmental Neurobiology. He leads a research group focusing on neurogenesis and cellular reprogramming, particularly converting glial cells into neurons. His work is supported by major grants like the ERC Advanced Grant (2021). Affiliations: King's College London, Francis Crick Institute (Satellite Group Leader) Education: PhD in Neurochemistry from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (1996) His research explores mechanisms to regenerate the diseased brain through reprogramming support cells into neurons. Key interests include neural stem cells, astrocyte biology, and regenerative medicine. Recent breakthroughs include reprogramming astroglia into functional interneurons and reducing epileptic seizures via glial conversion. Awards: ERC Advanced Grant (2021). Grants and collaborations: IMAGINE (EU project), Neuro-ReprOm (EU project), and partnerships with institutions like the Francis Crick Institute.

Zygmunt GaldzickiView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Molecular and Cell Biology
• Neurophysiology
• +1 more

Zygmunt Galdzicki, Ph.D., M.Sc., is a Professor in the Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) School of Medicine in Bethesda, MD. He holds secondary appointments in the Neuroscience and Molecular and Cell Biology programs. His career includes foundational work at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), where he served as Chief of the Unit on Cell Pathophysiology at the National Institute on Aging (1994–2000) before joining USUHS. Education: • M.Sc. in Experimental Physics, University of Wroclaw, Poland • Ph.D., Academy of Medicine, Wroclaw, Poland • Postdoctoral training in Neurosciences, NIA/NIH Research Focus: Dr. Galdzicki investigates molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., Down syndrome) and neural adaptation to environmental stressors. His work spans: Neurophysiological deficits in Down syndrome mouse models (Ts65Dn) Microglial responses and cognitive impacts of high-altitude acclimatization Traumatic brain injury (TBI) pathophysiology and therapeutic interventions Epigenetic regulation in PTSD and neurotrauma Publications & Themes: His recent articles (2013–2024) emphasize neuropathology in Down syndrome, TBI recovery mechanisms, and hypoxia-induced neuronal/vascular changes. Key methodologies include electrophysiology, epigenetic analysis, and preclinical modeling. Labs & Teams: He directs research on neuroadaptation at USUHS, collaborating with military medicine initiatives on TBI and environmental physiology.

Christine Byrd-JacobsView profile

Professor

• Cellular Neurobiology
• Neural Regeneration
• Neuroplasticity
• +3 more

Christine Byrd-Jacobs is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences and Dean of the Graduate College at Western Michigan University. Her research focuses on the plasticity of the adult central nervous system, using the zebrafish olfactory system as a model to study regeneration and recovery from injury. She leads a lab investigating immune response effects on neuroplasticity, neuronal subtype vulnerability, and sensory input alterations. Her work combines cellular neurobiology, immunology, and zebrafish model systems to address clinical applications in neuroregeneration. Recent studies explore microglial roles in neural repair and sex-based differences in dendritic morphology post-injury. She has advised numerous graduate and undergraduate students, fostering their development as researchers. Awards: Top Downloaded Paper (2020, IJMS), Cover Feature (2019, IJMS). Lab Members: PhD students Bonnie Corpus and John Rozofsky; undergraduates Abdulaziz Shebrain, Eric Oliver, Gabe Vanderwoude, and Nivetha Pasupathy. Publications highlight neuroplasticity mechanisms, immune modulation effects, and zebrafish models for studying brain injury recovery. Her dual role as Dean emphasizes graduate education leadership while maintaining active research and mentoring.

• Cancer Biology
• Neuroscience
• Stem Cell Biology
• +5 more

Dr. Florian Siebzehnrubl is a Senior Lecturer and Deputy Director of the European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute at Cardiff University's School of Biosciences. His research focuses on understanding the molecular regulators of normal and cancerous stem cells in the central nervous system (CNS), particularly glioblastoma. He holds a PhD from Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (2007) and has over 15 years of expertise in adult neural stem cells and cancer stem cell research. Research Interests: His work explores cancer stem cell biology in glioblastoma, transcriptional regulators like ZEB1, metabolic heterogeneity in tumors, and astrocyte biology. Key projects include investigating ZEB1's role in cancer stem cell invasion, therapy resistance, and its functions in normal neural cells. Grants: Lead applicant for MRC-funded 'Proteostatic regulation of glioblastoma stemness' (2023–2027, £1.6m FEC), and co-applicant for BBSRC SWBio DTP (2022–2026). Collaborates with institutions worldwide, including Uppsala University and Cleveland Clinic. Supervision: Current students include Ayesha Begum and Niharika Singh. Active in training postgraduate researchers in brain cancer stem cells, therapeutics, and neurogenesis. Labs/Teams: Leads the Astroglia Cell Biology Group, focusing on astrocyte plasticity and cancer stem cell biology. Affiliated staff include Dr. Suresh Kushik and Mrs. Dorit Siebzehnruebl.

Daniel LimView profile

Professor

• Long Noncoding RNA (lncRNA)
• Neural Stem Cells
• Genome Architecture
• +7 more

Daniel Lim , MD, PhD, is a Principal Investigator at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), mentoring students and postdoctoral fellows in neuroscience, genomics, and neurosurgical innovation. His lab focuses on long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), genome architecture, and neural stem cell biology. Research Priorities : lncRNA functions (e.g., Pnky), nuclear genome organization in neurodevelopment and disease, epigenetic regulators in glioma, and CRISPR-based screening. Lab Alumni : Former trainees hold faculty positions (e.g., Miao Cui at Harvard/Boston Children’s), industry roles (e.g., Martina Malatesta at Bristol Myers Squibb), and clinical/residency positions. Collaborative Projects : Include cancer epigenetics, glioblastoma radioresistance, and interventional MRI-guided cell transplantation. Recent Publications highlight lncRNA therapeutic targets, spatial 3D genome organization, and multiscale tumor heterogeneity analysis. His work spans Science , Nature Neuroscience , and Cell journals.