Find Academic Supervisors

• Immunology
• T cell biology
• Autoimmune diseases
• +2 more

Ciriaco Piccirillo is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at McGill University's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, and a Senior Scientist at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC), Glen site. He is affiliated with the Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program and the Centre for Translational Biology, as well as the Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy & Immunology at the MUHC. Dr. Piccirillo's research primarily focuses on the regulation of innate and adaptive immune responses mediated by Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells, a unique population of CD4+ T cells with potent immunosuppressive functions in humans and mice. His work investigates how normal development and function of these cells is essential for protection from autoimmune diseases, and how developmental or functional defects provoke inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. His laboratory employs a spectrum of molecular and cellular approaches to study Treg cell development, dynamics, and molecular basis of function in health and disease. His recent research has examined Treg cell deficiencies in various inflammatory disorders, particularly autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes (T1D). Dr. Piccirillo's work has been responsible for many seminal studies over the past decade related to Treg cell function and mechanism of action in animal models, non-human primates, and humans. His research spans multiple areas including immunology, T cell biology, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory conditions. Analysis of Dr. Piccirillo's recent publications reveals a strong focus on regulatory T cell biology across various disease contexts including autoimmune disorders, cancer immunology, and infectious diseases. His work frequently examines the molecular mechanisms of Treg cell function, their role in disease pathogenesis, and potential therapeutic applications. Recent studies have explored the relationship between Treg cells and conditions such as nephrotic syndrome, melanoma, type 1 diabetes, and SARS-CoV-2 immunity, demonstrating the breadth of his research impact. Dr. Piccirillo has been actively involved in numerous research collaborations across immunology and related fields. His work has contributed significantly to understanding the role of regulatory T cells in immune homeostasis and their potential as therapeutic targets for autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. He leads a research team focused on translational immunology, working to bridge basic discoveries in Treg cell biology with potential clinical applications. His laboratory is part of the vibrant research community at the RI-MUHC, contributing to the institute's mission of advancing medical knowledge through innovative research.

Masashi TanakaView profile

Associate Professor

• Neuroscience
• Experimental Psychology
• Animal Communication
• +7 more

Masashi Tanaka is an Associate Professor at Waseda University's School of Humanities and Social Sciences, specializing in neuroscience and experimental psychology. His research bridges animal behavior and human cognitive processes through songbird models. PhD in Psychology (The University of Tokyo, 2013) MA in Psychology (The University of Tokyo, 2010) BA in Letters (The University of Tokyo, 2008) Research Focus: Dr. Tanaka investigates neural mechanisms of vocal imitation, dopamine-driven cultural transmission, and amygdala functions in social learning. His work connects songbird neurobiology to human speech acquisition and cultural evolution. Publication Trends: His research spans from foundational retinal processing (2010) to complex vocal learning circuits (2016-2025), emphasizing dopamine pathways (2018), GABAergic synapse stability (2015), and social motivation regulation (2025). Studies involve zebra finches as models for imitative learning. Academic Contributions: He has taught courses in perception, cognition, and behavioral science at Waseda University since 2023. His lab explores how social cues and neural circuits shape cultural transmission across species.

Juho JoutsaView profile

Professor

• Neurology
• Movement Disorders
• Neuroimaging
• +4 more

Juho Joutsa serves as Professor of Neurology at the University of Turku and Chief Neurologist at Turku University Hospital since 2023, while chairing the Turku Brain and Mind Center. His academic journey includes progression from Adjunct Professor (2015) through Assistant and Associate Professor roles in Neuroimaging at the Turku Brain and Mind Center, alongside clinical specialization in Neurology (2020). Professor of Neurology, Clinical Neurosciences, University of Turku (2023-present) Chief Neurologist, Neurocenter, Turku University Hospital (2023-present) Chair, Turku Brain and Mind Center (current) Adjunct Professor, Department of Neurology, University of Turku (2015-present) Professor Joutsa's research focuses on elucidating neurobiological mechanisms of brain disorders through innovative lesion network mapping combined with advanced neuroimaging and neuromodulation techniques. His work spans neurological movement disorders (dystonia, tremor), addiction neuroscience, and epilepsy, with particular emphasis on translating circuit discoveries into therapeutic interventions. The laboratory employs a multimodal approach integrating causal brain lesion analysis, state-of-the-art MRI/PET/SPECT imaging, and brain stimulation methods (TMS, DBS, MRgFUS) to identify and modulate pathological brain networks. Recent publication trends reveal a strong focus on lesion-based circuit mapping across diverse neurological conditions. High-impact 2022-2025 papers in Nature Medicine, Brain, and Neurology demonstrate consistent methodological innovation in identifying disease-specific brain networks for movement disorders, stuttering, and addiction. The research shows increasing international collaboration and translational emphasis, with recent work directly informing neuromodulation treatment targets. As Lead Teacher in Neurology for the M.D. curriculum, Professor Joutsa integrates clinical expertise with research insights. His laboratory leverages the Turku PET Centre's exceptional resources including multiple PET/CT scanners and hybrid MRI/PET systems, facilitating cutting-edge multimodal studies. The laboratory maintains close operational ties with Turku University Hospital's clinical neurology and neurophysiology departments, enabling direct patient-researcher collaboration. The Brain Stimulation and Neuroimaging Laboratory (Turku Brainlab), established in 2018, operates within the Turku Brain and Mind Center with access to neuronavigated TMS, transcranial electrical stimulation, and comprehensive electrophysiology systems. This environment supports interdisciplinary research bridging clinical neurology, neuroscience, and engineering to develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for brain disorders.

• Neurosurgery
• Pediatric Neurosurgery
• Intraoperative Monitoring
• +5 more

Monika Putz serves as a teaching assistant ( asystent dydaktyczny ) at the Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery within the Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice at the Medical University of Silesia. Her clinical practice is associated with Górnośląskie Centrum Zdrowia Dziecka im. Jana Pawła II (Upper Silesian Child Health Center John Paul II) in Katowice, Poland. Dr. Putz specializes in pediatric neurosurgical interventions with particular expertise in brainstem surgery , intraoperative neuromonitoring , and evoked potentials assessment. Her research interests prominently feature pediatric neurosurgical conditions including brain abscesses, pontine lesions, and spinal cord neoplasms. The automated tag cloud from her profile indicates strong focus on retrospective studies involving female patients and motor function outcomes. With 5 documented publications, her scholarly output has achieved an h-index of 3 according to both Scopus and Web of Science citation databases. Her Total MEiN score stands at 350, reflecting her research contribution within the Polish academic medical system. Dr. Putz's clinical work appears to concentrate on complex pediatric neurosurgical cases requiring precise intraoperative monitoring techniques, particularly for procedures involving critical brainstem structures where preservation of motor function is paramount. Her research methodology frequently employs retrospective analysis of clinical outcomes in specialized neurosurgical interventions.

Hans-Jürgen GdyniaView profile

Lecturer

• Neurology
• Geriatrics
• Neurorehabilitation
• +3 more

Hans-Jürgen Gdynia is a Lecturer at the Chair of Social and Health Education within the Faculty of Philosophy and Education at the Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt . He serves as Chief Physician of Neurology and Head of Neurology at the m&i Enzensberg Clinic Group , with additional qualifications in Geriatrics and Physical Therapy/Balneology . His career spans institutions like the University Hospital Ulm and Helios Klinik Kipfenberg . Education: MD (magna cum laude, 2004) from Friedrich Schiller University Jena , and a Master of Health Business Administration (2021-2023) from Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg . Research Interests focus on neurorehabilitation , particularly for stroke and traumatic brain injury patients, and neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His work explores carotid artery dissection pathogenesis, ICU-acquired weakness rehabilitation, and spinal meningioma outcomes. Publications span journals like Neurocritical Care and Acta Neurologica Scandinavica . Professional Leadership includes heading the Neurorehabilitation Working Group and the Study Center for the OptiNIV study (funded by the Innovation Committee of the Federal Joint Committee with €5.3M over 4 years). He is a board member of the Working Group for Rehabilitation of Stroke Patients in Bavaria. Memberships: German Society of Neurology, German Society for Clinical Neurophysiology, Treat-NMD Muscular Dystrophy Network, German Society for Muscular Diseases, and the Working Group for Rehabilitation of Stroke Patients in Bavaria.

James SmartView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Endocrinology
• +3 more

James Smart is a Professor of Biology at George Fox University, teaching courses including BIOL 212 (General Biology II) , BIOL 335 (Neuroscience) , and BIOL 350 (Genetics) . He holds a BS in Biological and Physical Sciences from the University of Montana (1994) and a PhD in Neuroscience from Oregon Health & Science University (2003). His office is located in EHS 213. Research interests span both classical biology and modern interdisciplinary areas: Neuroendocrine regulation of energy balance via POMC neurons and melanocortin pathways Molecular mechanisms in obesity, insulin resistance, and HPA axis function Photosynthetic biophysics in bacterial systems (recent focus) Ion channel physiology in metabolic and neuronal contexts Transgenic modeling of metabolic disorders Publication analysis reveals evolving research directions: early work (1991-2003) focused on neuroendocrinology and transgenic models of POMC systems, while recent articles (2018-2024) demonstrate a shift toward photosynthetic mechanisms in bacteria. Key themes include energy homeostasis across biological scales – from neuronal circuits to bacterial energetics. No scientific awards, advised students, or lab/team affiliations are mentioned in available materials.

• Space physiology and medicine
• Central auditory processing
• Hyperbaric medicine
• +5 more

Jay C. Buckey Jr is a Professor of Medicine at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College. He serves as Director of the Space Medicine Innovations Laboratory and holds an additional appointment as Adjunct Professor at the Thayer School of Engineering. Dr. Buckey received his BSEE from Cornell University in 1977 and his MD from Cornell University Medical College in 1981. His research spans multiple domains at the intersection of space medicine, neuroscience, and innovative healthcare technologies. Dr. Buckey's work focuses on central auditory processing as a marker of neurocognitive function, space physiology and medicine, hyperbaric medicine, audiology and hearing assessment, computer-based psychological training programs, visual changes after spaceflight, and virtual reality applications. His research has significant implications for both space exploration and terrestrial medical applications, particularly in isolated and confined environments. Dr. Buckey's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on space medicine, auditory neuroscience, and applications of technology in healthcare. His work bridges the gap between space exploration research and practical medical applications on Earth, with particular emphasis on developing innovative diagnostic tools and treatment approaches for conditions affecting astronauts and patients in remote settings. As Director of the Space Medicine Innovations Laboratory, Dr. Buckey leads a multidisciplinary research team with global reach. The laboratory focuses on assessing brain function using the auditory system in various patient populations, developing new audiological tests for global use, creating autonomous behavioral health tools for isolated environments, and exploring hyperbaric oxygen applications. The lab also conducts technology and science projects for NASA and the Department of Defense. Dr. Buckey is the author of the book "Space Physiology" published by Oxford University Press and co-author of "The Neurolab Spacelab Mission: Neuroscience Research in Space," documenting results from the STS-90 mission.

Jens Christian ReklingView profile

Associate Professor

• Cellular Neurophysiology
• Systems Neurophysiology
• Brainstem Neurons
• +5 more

Jens Christian Rekling is an Associate Professor at the Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology within the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Copenhagen. His research focuses on understanding neural mechanisms underlying motor behavior and sensory processing, with particular emphasis on brainstem circuits involved in respiratory control. Dr. Rekling directs the Rekling Lab, which maintains active research programs investigating neural microcircuit function. Dr. Rekling graduated as a Medical Doctor in 1988 and completed his Medical Doctorate (dr.med.) in Neuroscience in 1999. His academic journey includes postdoctoral work at Copenhagen University, research positions at C.N.R.S in Paris, UCLA, and H. Lundbeck A/S before returning to academia at the University of Copenhagen. His career progression shows a consistent trajectory from research scientist to academic faculty member with leadership roles including Vice-Chair of the Department (2007-2011). Dr. Rekling's research program investigates how small assemblies of neurons interact to produce sensory and motor functions in the brain. His laboratory employs electrophysiological and optical techniques to study living neurons in preparations that maintain functional sensori-motor systems under in vitro conditions. Key research questions address neural microcircuit mechanisms involved in generating breathing movements, precision movements, and developmental processes specifying functional microcircuits. His work bridges cellular neurophysiology with systems-level understanding of motor control, with particular focus on brainstem respiratory networks and the olivocerebellar system. Analysis of Dr. Rekling's recent publications (2018-2025) reveals a strong focus on brainstem neural circuits, particularly the PreBötzinger complex involved in respiratory rhythm generation. His work spans multiple techniques including electrophysiology, calcium imaging, and organotypic slice cultures. Recent research explores neuropeptide modulation of neural circuits (TRH, opioids), gut-brain axis communication via vagal pathways, and the role of specific receptors in neural signaling. His interdisciplinary approach combines neuroscience, physiology, and pharmacology to address fundamental questions about neural circuit function, with implications for understanding neurological disorders affecting motor control. Dr. Rekling maintains active academic service roles including membership on the Graduate Programme in Neuroscience (serving as Chair in 2014) and the Aftagerpanelet for den Lægevidenskabelige Bachelor- og Kandidatuddannelse (2015). He has been a member of various University of Copenhagen committees since 2008, demonstrating ongoing institutional engagement beyond his research and teaching responsibilities. At the Rekling Lab, Dr. Rekling continues to investigate the cellular and network mechanisms underlying motor behavior, with the ultimate goal of understanding simple motor or sensory behaviors from the cellular to the network level. His research program remains active with publications through 2025, indicating continued scientific productivity and relevance in the field of neurophysiology.

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Neuroscience
• Blood Pressure Regulation
• +5 more

Gary C. Mouradian, PhD is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physiology at the Medical College of Wisconsin's School of Medicine. He maintains dual affiliations with both the Cardiovascular Research Center and the Neuroscience Research Center, reflecting his interdisciplinary research approach that bridges cardiovascular and neural systems. His work focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying blood pressure regulation, respiratory control, and the role of serotonin systems in these physiological processes. Dr. Mouradian's research interests center on cardiovascular neuroscience, with particular emphasis on hypertension mechanisms, oxygen sensing, and the neural control of breathing. His work frequently examines the renin-angiotensin system, brainstem cardiorespiratory nuclei, and developmental aspects of physiological control systems. He employs sophisticated rodent models to investigate fundamental mechanisms related to blood pressure regulation, hydromineral balance, and respiratory control. His recent publications (2022-2023) demonstrate continued productivity with multiple high-impact papers focusing on transcriptomic analyses of brainstem neurons, mechanisms of hypertension, and metabolic adaptations during obesity. His research shows a strong trajectory of increasingly complex molecular and physiological investigations while maintaining focus on fundamental questions in cardiovascular and respiratory physiology. Dr. Mouradian's work has been supported through collaborative research efforts with prominent investigators in the field, including Hodges MR, Grobe JL, and Sigmund CD. His research program appears to be well-established with consistent publication output across multiple high-impact physiology journals. His work has significant implications for understanding the pathophysiology of hypertension, respiratory control disorders, and developmental aspects of cardiorespiratory function, potentially informing future therapeutic approaches for these conditions.

• Neuroscience
• Neural Regeneration
• Oculomotor System
• +3 more

Professor Esperanza Rodriguez Matarredona is a distinguished faculty member in the Department of Physiology at the University of Seville's Faculty of Biology. With over 25 years of academic experience, she has established herself as a leading researcher in neural regeneration and neuroscience. Her work bridges fundamental neuroscience with potential clinical applications, particularly in the areas of neural repair and neuro-oncology. Her research interests focus on neural regeneration mechanisms, particularly in the oculomotor system, neural precursor cell biology, neurotrophic factors, and the relationship between neural stem cells and brain tumors. She has pioneered studies on neural progenitor cell implants for CNS repair and their interactions with host neural tissue. Professor Rodriguez Matarredona's recent publication record (2018-2023) shows consistent output across multiple high-impact journals, with research evolving from neural repair mechanisms toward understanding the role of neural stem cells in glioblastoma. Her work demonstrates increasing interdisciplinary connections between regenerative neuroscience and neuro-oncology. As an educator, she teaches courses including Neurophysiology, Principles of Instrumentation in Zoology and Physiology, and Biology of Nervous Cells, bringing her research expertise directly into the classroom. She has directed multiple doctoral theses and mentored numerous students through their research careers. Her research group maintains active collaborations within Spain and internationally, as evidenced by co-authorships across multiple institutions. She has successfully secured continuous research funding for over two decades, demonstrating sustained research productivity and relevance in her field.

• Genetics
• Genomics
• Metabolism
• +3 more

Petar Vladimirov Todorov is a Researcher at the Center for Basic Metabolic Research (CBMR) within the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen. His work focuses on genetic and genomic mechanisms underlying metabolic disorders, with primary affiliations to the Pers Group and CBMR located at Blegdamsvej 3B, Mærsk Tårnet. His research spans Genetics, Genomics, Metabolism, Obesity, Diabetes, and Neuroscience. He employs RNA-seq, GWAS, and single-cell mapping techniques to investigate brain areas in fasting/diet-induced obesity, glucose metabolism, and dietary intake patterns. His interdisciplinary approach bridges molecular mechanisms with metabolic phenotypes, particularly in neural regulation of metabolism. His 2021-2024 publications reveal consistent focus on metabolic neuroscience and large-scale genomics, with articles in Scientific Data, Nature Genetics, Nature Human Behaviour, and Diabetes. These works demonstrate expertise in translating genomic data into insights about obesity, diabetes pathophysiology, and neural control of metabolism, with significant media attention including coverage by 14 news outlets. No scientific awards were mentioned in the source material. No information regarding student advising or research grants was provided in the scraped text. He operates within the Pers Group at the Center for Basic Metabolic Research (CBMR), leveraging institutional resources at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences for cutting-edge metabolic research.

• Neuroscience
• Motor Control
• Neural Circuits
• +5 more

Ole Kiehn is a Professor in Integrative Neuroscience at the Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Denmark, and concurrently serves as Professor in Neuroscience at the Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Sweden. His research focuses on understanding the neuronal networks that produce movements, which are the origin of all behaviors. Education: MD from University of Copenhagen, Denmark (1985) D.Sci from University of Copenhagen, Denmark (1990) Docent, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden (2002) Kiehn's research centers on the molecular, cellular, and network diversification of locomotor circuitries in mammals. His lab applies advanced physiological and molecular genetic approaches including optogenetics, RNA-seq, molecular tracing, advanced imaging, and electrophysiology to study spinal and brainstem circuits. They have deciphered the functional organization of spinal circuitries for locomotion timing and coordination, and delineated brainstem circuits involved in gating or context-dependent selection of motor behaviors. Current research also investigates plasticity in spinal networks following spinal cord injury and the role of spinal interneurons in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Analysis of Kiehn's recent publications reveals a strong focus on neural circuit mechanisms underlying locomotion and behavior. His work spans multiple levels from molecular and cellular mechanisms to network organization and behavioral outcomes. Key themes include spinal cord circuitry, brainstem control of movement, neuromodulation, neurodegeneration in ALS, and the integration of different brain regions for coordinated motor behavior. The research demonstrates significant translational potential for developing therapies for movement disorders caused by trauma or disease. Scientific Awards and Honors: Lundbeck Foundation's Professorship award (2019-) Novo Nordic Foundation Laureate program (2017-) European Research Council advanced grant (2016-, second award) Member of EMBO (2014) Member of Academia Europea (2013) Member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences (2012) Member of The Royal Danish Academy of Sciences and Letters (2010) Torsten and Ragnar Söderberg's Professorship (2011-2016) European Research Council advanced grant (2011-2016) 5 Year Distinguished Professor Award from Karolinska Institute (2010-2015) Schellenberg Prize in spinal cord research (2004) Kiehn has supervised more than 10 PhD students and 25 postdocs throughout his career, hosting guest professors from institutions including Cornell University, Salk Institute, Oslo University, and William and Mary. His lab has secured substantial funding including Lundbeck Foundation's Professorship Grant (32 MDKK, 2020-2026), Novo Nordic Foundation Laureate Program (40 MDKK, 2017-2023), and multiple European Research Council advanced grants. He has served as PI for major collaborative projects including an NIH R01 grant with researchers from Drexel University and Salk Institute. Kiehn leads a research group focused on integrative neuroscience with expertise in advanced physiological and molecular genetic approaches. His lab bridges the gap between neuronal circuit organization and behavior, with strong translational potential for developing therapies for movement disorders. He also serves as Co-editor in chief of Current Opinion in Neurobiology and has held significant leadership roles including Vice Chair of the Nobel Committee for Physiology or Medicine (2016) and member of the Nobel Committee (2014-2019).

Jaspreet Kaur DaniilView profile

Assistant Professor

• Motor control
• Spinal population dynamics
• Locomotor Network
• +5 more

Jaspreet Kaur Daniil is an Assistant Professor at the Center for Translational Neuromedicine (CTN) within the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark. She also serves as a Guest Researcher in the Department of Neuroscience, focusing on Neuronal Signalling. Her academic journey spans institutions across Europe and India, with a strong foundation in biophysics and neurobiology. Dr. Daniil's educational background includes: PhD in Neurobiology from Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati (SISSA), Trieste, Italy (2013-2017) Master of Science in Biophysics from Panjab University, Chandigarh, India (2010-2012) Bachelor of Science in Biophysics from Panjab University, Chandigarh, India (2007-2010) Her research focuses on unraveling the complex motor system, particularly examining how movement is generated in mammals and orchestrated from the brain to the spinal cord. Dr. Daniil employs advanced techniques including Adeno-associated viruses (AAV), optogenetics, in vivo electrophysiology, and chronic neural implants such as optical fibers and high-density probes in rodent models. Her work spans multiple model systems including adult rats (in-vivo) and post-mortem human spinal cord tissue, with particular emphasis on understanding spinal population dynamics during locomotion and movement arrest. Analysis of Dr. Daniil's research publications reveals a strong focus on neural interfaces, motor control systems, and neural regeneration. Her work bridges the gap between basic neuroscience and translational applications, particularly in developing novel approaches for spinal cord injury treatment and neural repair. The recurring themes in her research include optogenetic manipulation of neural circuits, development of advanced neural interfaces, and understanding the fundamental mechanisms of motor control. Dr. Daniil has received several prestigious awards and grants throughout her career: PhD fellowship from International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA) FENS-IBRO/PERC Grant A.P. Møller Fonden Grant for Medical Science Advancement Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering at national level in India Special Student trophy from SISSA Federation of European Neuroscience Virtual Forum Grant Her collaborative work with Dr. Rune W. Berg has been particularly influential in advancing our understanding of motor control systems. Dr. Daniil's research has significant implications for developing therapeutic interventions for movement disorders and spinal cord injuries. She works within interdisciplinary teams that combine expertise in neuroscience, engineering, and clinical medicine to translate basic research findings into potential clinical applications.

Laurence PictonView profile

Assistant Professor

• Neuroscience
• Motor Control
• Proprioception
• +4 more

Laurence Picton is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at Karolinska Institutet, where he leads the research group Spinal circuits for whole-body motor coordination . His lab investigates how proprioceptive feedback and spinal networks integrate to control locomotion in mammals, employing techniques including patch-clamp electrophysiology, x-ray analysis, and genetic manipulation. Research interests center on: Proprioceptive mechanisms for movement feedback Spinal cord motor network organization Whole-body biomechanics during locomotion Sensorimotor integration in vertebrates Publications from 2018-2025 demonstrate consistent focus on locomotor circuits across model organisms, with recent work shifting toward mammalian systems. Key thematic clusters include rhythm generation, neural circuit plasticity, and sensory feedback systems. Scientific awards include: SSMF Large Grant 2021 StratNeuro Start-up Grant The lab currently includes three team members: two postdoctoral researchers and one research assistant. Funding is provided by the Swedish Research Council, Erling-Persson Foundation, and StratNeuro.

Joelle Payne StraehlaView profile

Assistant Professor

• Cancer nanomedicine
• Drug delivery technologies
• Pediatric brain tumors
• +5 more

Dr. Joelle Payne Straehla is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Washington School of Medicine and an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Bioengineering. She serves as a principal investigator at Seattle Children's Research Institute and as a pediatric oncologist in the Brain Tumor Program at Seattle Children's Hospital. Dr. Straehla is also a member of the Fred Hutch/University of Washington/Seattle Children's Cancer Consortium. Dr. Straehla received her MD from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and completed her pediatric residency at Seattle Children's Hospital/University of Washington. She further completed a fellowship in pediatric hematology/oncology at Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, where she gained additional training in biological and chemical engineering in the laboratory of Dr. Paula Hammond at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Prior to joining Seattle Children's in 2024, she was an Instructor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and a Charles W. (1955) and Jennifer C. Johnson Clinical Investigator at MIT's Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research. Dr. Straehla's research focuses on advancing drug delivery technologies for pediatric cancers, with a special interest in cancer nanomedicine. Her work operates at the intersection of nanotechnology and cancer biology, aiming to bridge the gap between innovative engineering tools and clinical practice. She leads the Straehla Lab, which is dedicated to designing new nanoparticle-based therapeutics, identifying biological regulators of nanoparticle drug delivery, improving delivery across challenging tissue barriers, and developing strategies to remodel the tumor microenvironment. Her research has significant implications for improving treatment of pediatric brain tumors and other difficult-to-treat childhood cancers. Dr. Straehla's publication record demonstrates expertise in nanoparticle design, blood-brain barrier penetration, and targeted cancer therapies. Her work includes developing predictive microfluidic models of glioblastoma, identifying biomarkers for nanoparticle delivery (particularly SLC46A3), and engineering layer-by-layer nanoparticles for improved brain tumor targeting. Her research combines high-throughput screening, genomic analysis, and translational approaches to accelerate the development of nanomedicine for pediatric cancer patients. Among her notable recognitions is the Charles W. (1955) and Jennifer C. Johnson Clinical Investigator position at MIT's Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research. Her work has been published in high-impact journals including Science, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and ACS Nano. As a clinician, Dr. Straehla cares for children with brain and spinal cord tumors and is involved in local and national consortia focused on improving brain tumor drug delivery through collaborative research. She is committed to harnessing cutting-edge engineering methods to improve outcomes for children with cancer while minimizing side effects to the developing brain. The Straehla Lab operates at the Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders Research and includes a diverse team of researchers working on various aspects of nanomedicine and drug delivery. Current projects include unlocking the drivers of nanoparticle delivery, engineering combination nanomedicines, and developing precision drug carriers for the central nervous system.