Find Academic Supervisors

Carmelo La RosaView profile

Associate Professor

• Protein Folding and Misfolding
• Amyloid Aggregation
• Membrane Biophysics
• +7 more

Carmelo La Rosa is an Associate Professor of Physical Chemistry at the University of Catania, Italy, with research focused on protein folding-misfolding dynamics and amyloid aggregation mechanisms in diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. His work bridges experimental biophysics and computational modeling to elucidate how metal ions , lipid bilayers , and nanoparticle interfaces influence amyloid toxicity. Since 2011, he has led the Lyotropic Liquid Crystals Laboratory, advancing model membrane systems. Key research areas include: Elucidating prefibrillar oligomer structures in amyloid diseases Investigating GXXXG motif stabilization in ion-channel-like amyloid pores Developing lipid-chaperone hypothesis framework for membrane damage Applying DSC, CD, MD simulations to thermodynamic analysis His publications (spanning 1996-2024) emphasize membrane-protein interactions , computational drug design , and nanoparticle-based diagnostic tools . He has served on editorial boards (Molecules, World Journal of Diabetes) and evaluated grants for NSERC, CINECA, and ANR. Recent work (2021-2024) explores lipid homeostasis in Alzheimer's, nanodisc integrity for membrane studies, and electrostatic regulation of amyloid-membrane interactions.

Fiona BrittonView profile

Professor

• Ion-channel physiology
• Cardiovascular electrophysiology
• Smooth-muscle excitability
• +4 more

Fiona Britton is Chair and Professor of Biomedical Sciences in the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Holding a B.Sc. and Ph.D. from Ulster University, Northern Ireland, she has built an internationally recognized research program focused on ion-channel physiology, smooth-muscle excitability, and cardiovascular regulation. Education Ph.D., Ulster University, Northern Ireland B.Sc., Ulster University, Northern Ireland Research Focus Professor Britton’s work centers on the molecular and functional characterisation of calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCCs), bestrophins, anoctamins/TMEM16, TRPV channels, and voltage-gated calcium channels. Using patch-clamp electrophysiology, molecular biology, and transgenic models, her group investigates how these channels control arterial tone, cardiac pacemaking, gastrointestinal motility, and uterine blood flow. A recurring theme is the integration of ion-channel activity with intracellular Ca²⁺ handling, offering insights into hypertension, heart failure, and pregnancy-related vascular adaptation. Across more than 40 peer-reviewed publications spanning 1997-2021, her studies trace an arc from cloning and expression of cardiac chloride channels (ClC-2, ClC-3, bestrophins) to demonstrating their physiological impact in smooth-muscle organs. Recent work has illuminated β-adrenoceptor subtype pharmacology in cremaster arterioles and TRPV3-mediated vasodilation in uterine vasculature, underscoring translational relevance to reproductive and cardiovascular medicine. Contact Email: fiona.britton@unlv.edu Phone: 702-774-8680 Mail Code: 7412, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

• Bioelectronics
• Optoelectronic Cell Control
• Nanostructured Materials
• +5 more

Vedran Đerek serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Experimental Physics at the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. His research spans bioelectronics, optoelectronic cell control, and nanostructured materials development. His laboratory ( dereklab.phy.hr ) focuses on creating advanced interfaces between biological systems and electronic devices. Dr. Đerek's research interests center on developing bioelectronic interfaces that enable precise communication with biological systems. His work in optoelectronic cell control utilizes light to modulate electrophysiological properties of cells with millisecond precision, enabling new approaches in biomedical research. His expertise in nanostructured and hybrid materials drives innovation in photodetectors and optoelectronic devices, while his spectroscopy work applies high-resolution optical techniques to study material properties and interactions. Numerical modeling using tools like COMSOL Multiphysics forms a critical component of his research methodology for simulating complex bioelectronic systems. His recent publication trend (2018-2024) reveals a strong focus on organic photocapacitors and photovoltaic devices for neural and cardiac stimulation. Key themes include wireless optoelectronic nerve stimulation, chronic neural interfaces, and the fundamental mechanisms of photocapacitive versus photofaradaic stimulation. His work bridges materials science, neuroscience, and biomedical engineering to develop next-generation bioelectronic interfaces with applications in medical devices and fundamental biological research. Dr. Đerek teaches courses in atomic and molecular physics at both undergraduate and doctoral levels, including "Atomska i molekulska fizika" (Atomic and Molecular Physics), "Osnove atomske i molekulske fizike" (Fundamentals of Atomic and Molecular Physics), and doctoral-level "Spektroskopske metode u proučavanju molekulskih vibracija" (Spectroscopic Methods in Molecular Vibration Studies).

David I. YuleView profile

Professor

• Intracellular Calcium Signaling
• Exocrine Cell Physiology
• Signal Transduction
• +3 more

David I. Yule, Ph.D., is a Professor at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry , holding dual appointments in the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology and the Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology/Hepatology . His research focuses on intracellular calcium signaling in exocrine cells , particularly pancreatic acinar cells and salivary gland cells , investigating how IP3 receptors and ryanodine receptors regulate fluid secretion , enzyme release , and pathophysiological responses in diseases like acute pancreatitis and Sjögren's Syndrome . Ph.D., University of Liverpool (1989) B.S., Portsmouth Polytechnic (1985) Postdoctoral work: MRC Secretory Control Group, University of Liverpool and University of Michigan Yule's lab employs high-speed confocal microscopy , antisense technology , and fluorescence imaging to dissect agonist-specific signaling pathways and calcium release site organization . Current projects include studying IP3 receptor phosphorylation , genetic defects in calcium signaling linked to dry mouth diseases, and mitochondrial interactions in calcium dynamics. His recent 15 most influential publications span topics from IP3R isoform regulation in gluconeogenesis to calcium oscillation modeling and Bcl-2 family modulation of apoptotic signaling . Collaborative work with institutions like Stanford and KU Leuven has produced key insights into organellar calcium channels . Recipient of the Louis C. Lasagna Professorship in Experimental Therapeutics (2016) Awarded with the 2016 Convocation Award at University of Rochester As mentor, Yule supervises graduate students in multidisciplinary research, including projects on radiation-induced salivary dysfunction (Amanda Wahl, NIH F31 awardee) and mitochondrial Ca²⁺ handling . His lab maintains a 3D computational modeling partnership with J. Sneyd to integrate experimental data with theoretical frameworks.

Benjamin RostView profile

Researcher

• Optogenetics
• Neuroscience
• Synaptic Plasticity
• +3 more

Dr. Benjamin Rost is a researcher at the Institute of Neurophysiology within the Faculty of Medicine at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin. He is a core member of Collaborative Research Center SFB 1315 (Project C01), focused on developing molecular tools for memory engram manipulation and investigation. His research centers on optogenetic technology development and neural circuit analysis, with specific expertise in synaptic plasticity mechanisms, calcium signaling control, and neuromuscular junction modeling. Key contributions include engineering calcium-permeable channelrhodopsins (CapChRs) for precise intracellular signaling manipulation, developing bistable opto-GPCRs like PdCO for multiplexed circuit interrogation, and creating self-organizing neuromuscular junction models from human stem cells. His work bridges molecular engineering, electrophysiology, and disease modeling to address fundamental questions in neural communication. Recent publications reveal a clear trajectory toward increasingly sophisticated optogenetic tools with enhanced spatiotemporal precision. His 2022-2025 work demonstrates progression from foundational presynaptic optogenetics (2022) to asymmetric plasticity discovery (2025), with critical intermediate advances in calcium signaling (2022), stem cell-based disease models (2023), and high-throughput screening systems (2024). This evolution highlights his interdisciplinary approach combining biophysics, stem cell biology, and circuit neuroscience. Dr. Rost operates within Prof. Dietmar Schmitz's laboratory at Charité's Institute of Neurophysiology, leveraging SFB 1315 resources for memory engram research. His team employs advanced techniques including patch-clamp electrophysiology, stem cell differentiation protocols, and custom-built optogenetic hardware like the RainbowCap illumination system for microplate-based assays.

Esin B. SözerView profile

Academic

• Biophysics
• Electropermeabilization
• Electrostimulation
• +3 more

Esin B. Sözer is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the Bioengineering Department at Northeastern University's College of Engineering. She holds a PhD in Electrical Engineering-Electrophysics from the University of Southern California (USC), an M.S. from Auburn University, and a B.S. from Hacettepe University. Her research focuses on biophysics of electric field interactions with biological systems, electropermeabilization, and electrostimulation. She has held prior appointments including Research Assistant Professor at Old Dominion University and Postdoctoral roles at UCLA and USC. Education: PhD, Electrical Engineering-Electrophysics, USC (200X) M.S., Electrical and Computer Engineering, Auburn University B.S., Electronics Engineering, Hacettepe University Her research interests span biophysical mechanisms of nanosecond electrical stimuli, calcium electroporation therapies, and laser-driven electron acceleration. Recent work explores modulation of cellular responses via field reversal techniques and quantitative transport limits in electropermeabilized membranes. Teaching emphasizes student engagement and individualized learning in bioelectricity and biophysics. Publications highlight advancements in understanding electroporation dynamics, ion channel modulation, and therapeutic applications of electropermeabilization. Key contributions include modeling lipid bilayer pore formation and analyzing dose-dependent cancer cell death mechanisms. Awards: 2025 Diversity Recognition Award (Northeastern University) Teaching responsibilities include biomedical engineering courses with a focus on integrating research insights into pedagogy. Active in consulting roles bridging academic and clinical applications of bioelectrical systems.

Fabio FusiView profile

Associate Professor

• Pharmacology
• Vascular Biology
• Medicinal Chemistry
• +3 more

Fabio Fusi is an Associate Professor at the University of Siena's Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy. His laboratory is located at II lotto, I floor, room C_01_135b, Via Aldo Moro 2, Siena, with multiple contact numbers (+39 0577 235203, +39 0577 235375, +39 0577 235377, +39 0577 235378) and email fabio.fusi@unisi.it. He holds office hours by appointment on Mondays from 11:00 to 13:00. Dr. Fusi's research focuses on pharmacology of vascular systems , with emphasis on ion channel modulation (particularly Ca V 1.2 and K Ca 1.1 channels), vasorelaxant mechanisms, and drug discovery. His work leverages natural products (flavonoids, propolis, labdane diterpenes) and synthetic derivatives to develop novel therapeutics for cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Key themes include structure-activity relationships, electrophysiological characterization, and molecular modeling of bioactive compounds. Recent publications (2022-2025) demonstrate consistent investigation into: 1) Flavonoid derivatives as modulators of vascular ion channels, 2) Natural product-based vasodilators from propolis, citrus, and olive oil, 3) Strategies to overcome cancer multidrug resistance, and 4) Mitochondrial dynamics in vascular tone regulation. His research employs electrophysiology, functional assays, and computational approaches to elucidate mechanisms of action. Dr. Fusi leads an active research team with dedicated laboratory facilities, evidenced by multiple lab phone extensions. While specific students, awards, and grants aren't detailed in source materials, his publication record confirms ongoing doctoral/postdoctoral supervision in pharmacology and medicinal chemistry.

Timothy J. LewisView profile

Professor

• Mathematical Physiology
• Neurobiology
• Cardiac Electrophysiology
• +4 more

Timothy J. Lewis is a Professor in the Department of Mathematics at the University of California, Davis, with a research focus on mathematical physiology, neurobiology, and excitable media. He has held positions at UC Davis since 2004, progressing from Assistant to Associate to Full Professor. Ph.D. in Mathematics (University of Utah, 1998) M.S. in Mathematics (University of Utah, 1993) M.Sc. in Physiology (McGill University, 1991) B.Sc. in Physiology and Physics (McGill University, 1988) His research interests include: Mathematical modeling of excitable media Neurobiology of electrically coupled neurons Cardiac electrophysiology and pharmacology Weakly coupled oscillator theory Dynamical systems in biological contexts His recent work spans computational neuroscience, cardiac drug interactions, and biomechanical systems. Key trends include: Modeling subcellular cAMP compartmentation Optimizing neurocardiac digital twins Analyzing sodium channel blocker efficacy Investigating spiral wave stability in excitable tissue Scientific awards include: 2011 G. Thomas Sallee Award for undergraduate teaching 2007 Galois Group Service Award He has mentored numerous graduate and undergraduate students, including: Jiawei Zhang (Ph.D. 2013, now at University of Arizona) Michael Schwemmer (Ph.D. 2010, now at Battelle Memorial Institute) Steffen Docken (current Ph.D. candidate)

Cunming DuanView profile

Professor

• Molecular and Developmental Endocrinology
• Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology
• +4 more

Cunming Duan is a Professor and Director of the Undergraduate Program in Neuroscience in the Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB) at the University of Michigan (U-M). He holds a doctoral degree from the University of Tokyo, followed by postdoctoral research at the University of Washington and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His research focuses on developmental and cell plasticity, particularly mechanisms regulating these processes through the insulin/insulin-like growth factor (IIS)-PI3K-Akt-Tor signaling pathway and hypoxia/HIF biology. Using zebrafish and human cell models, his lab investigates epithelial cell quiescence-proliferation transitions, calcium signaling, and the role of IGF binding proteins in developmental adaptations. Dr. Duan’s work spans molecular endocrinology, cell biology, and developmental biology, with emphasis on understanding how environmental cues like oxygen availability and calcium levels modulate growth and regeneration. His lab employs advanced techniques including CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, in vivo imaging, and RNAseq analysis to identify key regulators of cell fate decisions. Recent publications highlight contributions to insulin/IGF receptor signaling, stanniocalcin-mediated calcium regulation, and ROS-driven mitochondrial responses in epithelial renewal. His research has implications for understanding tissue repair, cancer biology, and metabolic disorders. Dr. Duan’s lab is located in the Biological Sciences Building (Room 3250), and he directs the undergraduate neuroscience program within LSA. His team collaborates broadly to translate basic discoveries into insights about human health and disease mechanisms.

Amalia M. DolgaView profile

Associate Professor

• Neurodegeneration
• Mitochondrial Dysfunction
• Neuroinflammation
• +7 more

Amalia M. Dolga is an Associate Professor in Regenerative Neuropharmacology at the University of Groningen, affiliated with the Faculty of Science and Engineering and Faculty of Medical Sciences. She leads research on mitochondrial dysfunction and neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on therapies targeting SK channels and mitochondrial transplantation. Her work spans Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases. She holds a Rosalind Franklin Fellowship and chairs the Dutch Pharmacological Society. Education: PhD: University of Groningen (2004–2008), advisor Ulrich Eisel Habilitation: Philipps-Universität Marburg (2013–2015) Postdoc: Philipps-Universität Marburg (2008–2013) Research Interests: Molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration, mitochondrial dynamics, neuroinflammation, and SK channel modulation. Current projects explore ferroptosis in Alzheimer's and mitochondrial transplantation in Parkinson's. She supervises PhD students on topics like mitochondrial function and oxidative stress. Grants & Awards: ZonMw Grant (€772,000) for LRRK2 Targeting (2023–2027) Michael J. Fox Foundation Grant ($500,000) for Mitochondrial Transplantation (2023–2025) Multiple travel awards and fellowships from Seahorse Bioscience, DFG, and others. Advisory Roles: Chair of Dutch Pharmacological Society, member of NWO Talent Programme committees, and GRIP/GRIAC institutes.

Kate O'Connor-GilesView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Synaptic Plasticity
• Molecular Genetics
• +3 more

Kate O'Connor-Giles is a Provost's Professor of Brain Science at Brown University, affiliated with the Department of Neuroscience and the Carney Institute for Brain Science. Her research focuses on understanding synaptic communication and plasticity in neurons, employing advanced techniques like genetics, electrophysiology, and CRISPR-based genome engineering. She leads the O'Connor-Giles Lab, which develops innovative tools for studying synapses in vivo and contributes to open-access resources like the CRISPR Target Finder and FlyCRISPR platforms. Her work bridges molecular mechanisms and functional outcomes, investigating how neurons build and modulate synaptic connections over time. Key areas include autophagy regulation at ER-lysosome interfaces, transcriptional control of synaptic genes, and the role of calcium channels in synaptic diversity. The lab’s CRISPR tools have significantly advanced Drosophila genetics research, enabling precise genome editing and homology-directed repair. Publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches, from synaptic growth mechanisms to neurodegenerative pathways, emphasizing the interplay between molecular biology and neuronal function. Her lab’s reagents are shared via Addgene and the Drosophila Genomics Resource Center, fostering collaborative research globally.

Tsang-Wei TuView profile

Associate Professor

• Neuroimaging
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Molecular Imaging
• +7 more

Dr. Tsang-Wei Tu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Radiology at Howard University College of Medicine. He is a key faculty member of the Molecular Imaging Laboratory and the Howard University Imaging Core, where he leads research in advanced neuroimaging techniques. His educational background includes a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science from Washington University in St. Louis (2011) and postdoctoral training in Radiology and Imaging Sciences at the National Institutes of Health (2016). Dr. Tu's research focuses on molecular and functional imaging to understand traumatic brain injury and other neurological disorders. His work emphasizes bridging radiological findings with underlying brain pathophysiology. Key areas include neuroimaging, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI, blood-brain barrier disruption, and spinal cord injury . He teaches courses such as Medical Imaging Technology (MPHS 502) and Topics in Anatomy & Physiology (BIOL 501). The recent publications show a strong trend in using multimodal imaging (MRI, PET, MRS) in preclinical models to study brain injury, neuroinflammation, and regenerative therapies. His work frequently involves pulsed focused ultrasound, microbubbles, and stem cell delivery, with a focus on safety, efficacy, and mechanistic insights. Dr. Tu has not been publicly recognized with scientific awards in the provided text. He actively mentors students and researchers in the Molecular Imaging Laboratory, though specific advisees are not listed. His research is supported by extensive collaborations, particularly with scientists at the National Institutes of Health. Ongoing work appears to focus on imaging biomarkers for cerebral metabolic depression, BBB modulation, and regenerative medicine applications. Dr. Tu is affiliated with the Molecular Imaging Laboratory and the Howard University Imaging Core, which provide advanced imaging resources for preclinical and translational research.

Alexander GottschalkView profile

Professor

• Optogenetics
• Synaptic Transmission
• Ion Channels
• +7 more

Dr. Alexander Gottschalk is a Professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF). He serves as Director of the CyberKnife Radiosurgery Program and Vice Chair of Clinical Services, overseeing clinical operations at multiple UCSF sites including Mount Zion, Parnassus Mission Bay, and Washington Hospital. He actively participates in clinical care for Urologic, Thoracic, Orthopedic, and Gastrointestinal Oncology programs, while also mentoring radiation oncology residents and medical students. MD, University of Chicago (1996) Dr. Gottschalk's research spans both neuroscience (focusing on optogenetics, synaptic transmission, and C. elegans models) and radiation oncology (specializing in stereotactic body radiotherapy, brachytherapy, and cancer treatment optimization). His recent publications highlight innovations in light-activated ion channels, optogenetic tools for neuronal control, and advanced radiation therapy frameworks. Notable clinical research includes trials on prostate cancer treatment combining radiation therapy with pharmacological agents, and systematic analyses of radiation therapy for adrenal metastases. His work also encompasses neurogenetic engineering and biomedical imaging applications. Commitment to Patient Care Award, UCSF (2012-2013) Lifetime Teaching Award, UCSF (2012-2013) Educator of the Year, UCSF (2009-2010) As Vice Chair, Dr. Gottschalk oversees clinical operations and proctors faculty in CyberKnife Radiosurgery. He collaborates extensively with multidisciplinary teams across oncology programs and contributes to the development of optogenetic technologies through his laboratory research.

Robert T. DirksenView profile

Professor

• Intracellular Calcium Signaling
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Ryanodine Receptor (RYR1) Pathophysiology
• +6 more

Robert T. Dirksen is a Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. His research program bridges muscular dystrophies , cardiac disease , and calcium signaling pathophysiology , with specific focus on RYR1-related disorders , mitochondrial dysfunction , and store-operated calcium entry . He leads a multi-disciplinary lab using Dirksen Lab to investigate disease mechanisms and develop novel therapies. Education: Ph.D. in Pharmacology (University of Rochester, 1991) M.S. in Pharmacology (University of Rochester, 1988) B.S. in Biology (University of Notre Dame, 1985) Dr. Dirksen's work reveals how calcium dysregulation drives muscle degeneration through four major themes: excitation-contraction coupling , mitochondrial calcium uptake , store-operated entry systems , and molecular mechanisms of myotonic dystrophy . His 2025 Nature Aging study demonstrated inflammation-induced epigenetic erosion in aged stem cells, while 2024 EMBO Journal work developed ORAI1-based therapeutic models for tubular aggregate myopathy. Scientific Recognition: 2015: Department Chair 2012: Department Vice-Chair 2002: Graduate Student Society Faculty Mentoring Award His lab website highlights collaborations with C. Thornton (myotonic dystrophy), JP Jin (calcium channel regulation), and JJ Dowling (zebrafish models). Current projects include RYR1 disease modeling , SOCE mechanisms , and mitochondrial calcium dynamics in striated muscle.

Katherine L. PerkinsView profile

Associate Professor

• Neurophysiology
• Epileptogenesis
• GABAergic Signaling
• +4 more

Katherine L. Perkins, PhD is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, focusing on neurophysiology and epilepsy research . Her work investigates GABAergic signaling , interneuron networks , and extracellular space dynamics in seizure mechanisms. Research Themes: Depolarizing GABA responses in hippocampal neurons Interneuron network activation patterns Role of extracellular matrix in epilepsy Pharmacological modulation of seizure activity Key Techniques: Cell-attached and whole-cell patch-clamp recording, rodent brain slice models, synaptic current analysis. Her publications span Journal of Neurophysiology , Epilepsy Research , and Journal of Neuroscience , with a focus on synaptic transmission and neuronal excitability in epilepsy models. Collaborations: Sabina Hrabetova's lab (extracellular space studies)