Find Academic Supervisors

• Human Dimensions of Wildlife
• Natural Resource Management
• Ecosystem Services
• +7 more

Jennifer Schmidt, Ph.D. , is an Associate Professor at the University of Alaska Anchorage in the Department of Natural Resources Management and Policy. Her work focuses on socio-ecological systems, balancing conservation with societal needs through interdisciplinary research. Ph.D. in Wildlife Biology from University of Alaska–Fairbanks (2007) Dual B.S. degrees in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior and Genetics and Cellular Biology from University of Minnesota–Twin Cities (1999) Research interests span human dimensions of wildlife , ecosystem services , GIS , climate change , and wildfire management . She integrates biological and social data while collaborating with stakeholders. Recent publications highlight trends in Arctic wildfire risk assessment , FEW (Food-Energy-Water) systems , permafrost hazards , and community resilience . Her work spans 2015-2024 with emphasis on boreal and Arctic systems. NSF grants for SAFRR, EVITA, AURA, and Fire and Ice projects BLM and DOE funding for wildfire and energy research Montana State University CTRP collaborations for cancer education She leads projects like Arctic Urban Risks and Adaptations (AURA) and Socio-ecological Fuel Treatments (SAFRR) , while contributing to permafrost and wildfire hazard mapping initiatives.

Arndt von HaeselerView profile

Professor

• Phylogenetic inference
• Phylogenomics
• Neural Networks
• +4 more

Arndt von Haeseler is a Full Professor for Bioinformatics at the Center for Molecular Biology and Department for Computer Sciences at the University of Vienna, as well as at the Department for Medical Biochemistry at the Medical University of Vienna. He serves as the Scientific Director of the Center for Integrative Bioinformatics Vienna (CIBIV) and was previously Dean of the Center of Molecular Biology at the University of Vienna and Head of the Center for Medical Biochemistry at the Medical University of Vienna from 2017-2020. His research focuses on phylogenetic inference, phylogenomics, neural networks, sequence evolution, and complex patterns of evolution. With expertise spanning mathematics, biology, and computer science, he has made significant contributions to computational biology through the development of algorithms and software tools for phylogenetic analysis. His work bridges theoretical approaches with biological applications, particularly in evolutionary biology and genomics. Dr. von Haeseler's recent publications demonstrate a strong trend toward integrating machine learning approaches with traditional phylogenetic methods, while expanding into single-cell RNA sequencing analysis and organoid modeling. His research spans computational methodology development, evolutionary analysis, and biomedical applications, with a consistent focus on improving analytical frameworks for biological sequence data. Visiting Professor at Division of theoretical Genetics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan (since 2012) WWTF Science Chair Award, Vienna, Austria (2005) Honorary Professor for Theoretical Biology, University of Leipzig, Germany (since 1999) PhD scholarship, Studienstiftung des Deutschen Volkes, Germany (1985-1988) He mentors numerous PhD students and researchers, including Heiko A. Schmidt, Alina Leuchtenberger, and Cassius Manuel. His laboratory develops computational methods that have found widespread application in evolutionary biology and genomics research. The Center for Integrative Bioinformatics Vienna (CIBIV), which he directs, serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research bridging computational approaches with biological questions.

Mani S. MahadevanView profile

Professor

• Human genetics
• Molecular genetics
• Myotonic dystrophy
• +4 more

Mani S. Mahadevan, M.D. is a Professor of Pathology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, where he directs a prominent research program focused on the molecular genetics of myotonic dystrophy (DM), the most common inherited neuromuscular disorder in adults. His work has established fundamental understanding of the disease mechanisms and continues to drive therapeutic development. Dr. Mahadevan received his medical degree from the University of Ottawa in 1986, followed by clinical training including an internship at Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario (1986-1987), residency at the University of Ottawa (1987-1991), and a research fellowship at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (1991-1995). This comprehensive background bridges clinical medicine with deep molecular investigation. His laboratory made seminal contributions to the field by cloning the DM gene and identifying the mutation as a CTG trinucleotide repeat expansion in the 3' untranslated region of the DMPK gene. Current research focuses on RNA-protein interactions, muscle regeneration in RNA toxicity models, and identifying therapeutic targets. His team has demonstrated that mutant DMPK 3'UTR mRNA forms distinct nuclear foci and inhibits normal muscle differentiation, establishing critical disease mechanisms. Analysis of Dr. Mahadevan's publication record reveals a consistent trajectory from fundamental gene discovery to sophisticated investigations of RNA toxicity mechanisms and therapeutic development. His recent work shows particular emphasis on muscle regeneration pathways, novel therapeutic targets like the TWEAK/Fn14 pathway, and the role of RNA-binding proteins in disease pathology. This evolution reflects both maturation of the field and strategic research direction. Dr. Mahadevan has established a productive research program that has generated significant insights into myotonic dystrophy pathogenesis. His laboratory has developed important cellular and animal models that serve as platforms for therapeutic testing. Through his mentorship and collaborative efforts, he has contributed to training researchers in neuromuscular disorders, with his work continuing to shape our understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying this complex disorder.

Maria Dolores Molina JiménezView profile

Associate Professor

• Developmental Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• +5 more

Maria Dolores (Loli) Molina Jiménez serves as an Associate Professor in the Bioengineering Department at IQS School of Engineering. With an active research profile spanning over 15 years, her work bridges molecular biology, developmental genetics, and environmental toxicology. She maintains an impressive publication record with 21 research outputs, showing increased productivity in recent years with multiple publications in 2023-2024. Her research interests center on developmental biology using planarians and sea urchins as model organisms. Key focus areas include cellular differentiation , embryonic patterning , gene regulation , and environmental impacts on development . Her work on planarian regeneration mechanisms and sea urchin embryonic development has established her as a specialist in invertebrate developmental models. Recent research has expanded into plastic pollution effects on invertebrate development, demonstrating interdisciplinary reach. Analysis of her recent publications shows strong emphasis on molecular mechanisms of development, particularly TGF-β signaling pathways, transcription factor networks, and genomic approaches to understanding deuterostome evolution. Her work frequently appears in high-impact journals including PLoS Biology, Cell Genomics, and Chemosphere. Dr. Molina Jiménez maintains active national and international collaborations, as evidenced by co-authorship with researchers across multiple institutions. Her work has been cited over 586 times with an h-index of 12 according to Scopus metrics. Her research has attracted significant attention with coverage in 16 news outlets and engagement across multiple social media platforms. She has developed specialized laboratory techniques for studying invertebrate development, particularly in planarian research where she has contributed to methodological advances in whole-mount in situ hybridization. Her work bridges basic developmental mechanisms with environmental concerns, particularly regarding plastic pollution impacts on embryonic development across diverse invertebrate taxa.

• Medical Mycology
• Fungal Pathogenesis
• Antimicrobial Resistance
• +3 more

Dr. Delma Childers is a Senior Lecturer in Medical Sciences at the University of Aberdeen's School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, where she has been employed since 2019 (promoted to Senior Lecturer in 2023). She is a key member of the Aberdeen Fungal Group and the Infection and Immunology Research Programme within the Institute of Medical Sciences. Dr. Childers serves as the Programme Lead for the MSc by Research in Medical Sciences and offers Honours and MSc projects in Biomedical Sciences while also acting as a Personal Tutor. Her educational background includes: PhD in Microbiology & Immunology from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (2006-2012) BSc in Biology from Schreiner University, Kerrville, Texas (2003-2006) Dr. Childers' research centers on understanding how fungi adapt to their hosts and antifungal agents to cause infections. Her primary focus investigates how the antifungal-resistant emerging fungal pathogen Candida glabrata (recently renamed Nakaseomyces glabratus) remodels its surface to inhibit host immune activation and control disease outcomes. This work employs cytometric analyses, innate immune interaction assays, and molecular approaches to determine detection mechanisms and immune evasion strategies. Another significant research strand builds on her demonstration that Saccharomyces cerevisiae clinical isolates are predominantly metabolic generalists that have lost glucose repression, exploring how fungal metabolic mechanisms contribute to persistence in hosts. Her overarching goal is to improve understanding of fungal antimicrobial resistance, persistence, and pathogenesis to enhance diagnosis and treatment of serious fungal diseases. Her publication record demonstrates consistent high-impact contributions to medical mycology, with research spanning cell wall biology, immune evasion mechanisms, metabolic adaptation, and antifungal resistance across Candida species. Recent work reveals sophisticated fungal strategies for manipulating host immune recognition through surface remodeling and environmental sensing. Her notable recognitions include: Scientist of the Week during the 2020 Medical Research Zone STEM Ambassador since 2015 Member of the Young Academy of Scotland (2020-2025) Elected Eukaryotic Division member, Microbiology Society (2021-2023) Carnegie Trust Research Incentives Grant (2020-2021) Royal Society Research Grant (2020-2021) Academy of Medical Sciences Springboard Round 6 Award (2021-2023) Dr. Childers actively supervises students including Gabriela Fior Ribeiro (PhD), Erin Slater, Lauren Marshall, and Eszter Denes (MSc researchers), and currently mentors Jonas Lupfer and Logan Tomlinson. She serves as Board of Reviewer for Microbiology journal and participates extensively in public engagement through University of Aberdeen's Doors Open Day, May Festival activities, and Soapbox Science events. Her teaching includes Molecular Microbiology (MC3504) and 'Evaluating and Communicating Research' (MB5529). As an integral member of the Aberdeen Fungal Group, Dr. Childers collaborates across institutional boundaries to investigate fungal pathogenesis using multidisciplinary approaches that combine molecular biology, immunology, and advanced microscopy to understand host-pathogen dynamics at the cellular level.

Anna O'BrienView profile

Assistant Professor

• Plant-Microbiome Interactions
• Global Change Biology
• Evolutionary Genetics
• +3 more

Anna O'Brien is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Biomedical Sciences at the University of New Hampshire (UNH), part of the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture (COLSA). Her research focuses on plant-microbiome interactions under global change stressors, exploring how evolutionary dynamics in these relationships influence host fitness and resilience. She employs advanced techniques like sequencing, epigenetics, and computational modeling to unravel these complex systems. Professor O'Brien’s work bridges ecology, evolution, and molecular biology, with a particular emphasis on bioremediation applications and the impacts of climate change on plant-microbe mutualisms. She teaches courses including Microbial Ecology & Evolution, Molecular Genetics, and Professional Perspectives in Genetics. Her team actively seeks new members for undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs. Key research themes include the interplay between microbiomes and environmental stressors, such as temperature, CO2, and microplastics. Her lab investigates how these stressors influence plant adaptation and mutualistic outcomes. Recent studies highlight the resilience of aquatic plants and their microbiomes under multiple stressors, as well as the development of novel imaging systems for phenotyping small organisms. While no formal awards are listed, her extensive publication record reflects contributions to understanding evolutionary consequences of microbiomes and the design of bioremediation strategies. Ongoing projects aim to integrate environmental and genomic data to predict ecosystem responses under changing conditions.

Brendon BoudinotView profile

Research Professor

• Entomology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Systematic Morphology
• +3 more

Dr. Brendon Boudinot serves as the Head of Entomology II at the Senckenberg Society for Nature Research, leading research in evolutionary and systematic morphology with a focus on insects, particularly ants. His work integrates advanced techniques like micro-CT scanning and phylogenetic statistics to study insect anatomy and evolutionary history. Dr. Boudinot is known for his contributions to understanding ant evolution through fossil analysis, including seminal studies on Cretaceous ants and their morphological adaptations. His research spans formicidae systematics, fossil insect morphology, and the evolutionary origins of parasitoid wasps and other hexapods. He frequently publishes in peer-reviewed journals and collaborates on interdisciplinary projects involving amber fossils, as seen in his co-hosting of the podcast 'Weird Species' discussing entomological curiosities. Dr. Boudinot’s expertise also extends to insect genital homology, functional morphology, and the application of phenomics in entomology. His work bridges paleontology and modern systematics, providing critical insights into the biodiversity of Mesozoic insects and their descendants.

Christoph A. WeberView profile

Research Professor

• Biophysics
• Soft Matter Physics
• Active Matter
• +3 more

Christoph A. Weber is a Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems and the Center for Systems Biology Dresden (CSBD). His research focuses on mesoscopic physics of life , including phase transitions in biological systems, intra-cellular organization mechanisms, and the physical principles underlying the origin of life. He holds a PhD in physics from Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) Munich, where he studied under Prof. Erwin Frey. Prior to his current position, he conducted postdoctoral research at Harvard University and the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems. His work bridges biophysics, soft matter physics, and active matter, with a strong emphasis on theoretical modeling and interdisciplinary collaboration. Education : PhD in Physics (summa cum laude), LMU Munich (2013) Postdoc at Harvard University (2016–2018) Postdoc at MPIPKS Dresden (2013–2016) Research Highlights : Active droplet dynamics and protocell modeling Phase separation in biological systems (coacervates, condensates) Non-equilibrium phenomena in soft matter Origin-of-life studies via synthetic cell systems Collaborators and Labs : Prof. Olivier Dauchot (ESPCI Paris) Prof. Hugues Chaté (CEA Paris) Argonne National Laboratory (collaboration with Igor Aronson) Advising : He has mentored over 15 PhD, Master's, and undergraduate students in Dresden, Cambridge, and Munich, focusing on computational and theoretical approaches to active matter and biological physics.

Rupert BealeView profile

Research Professor

• Immunology
• Infectious Disease
• Virology
• +3 more

Rupert Beale is a Research Professor and Group Leader at The Francis Crick Institute in London, UK. He previously held roles as a Clinical Lecturer in Nephrology and Immunology at the University of Cambridge (2013–2015) and an MRC Clinician Scientist Fellow (2015–2019). His research focuses on viral interactions with host cells, particularly influenza and SARS-CoV-2, with a focus on autophagy pathways and immune responses. Education: MB/PhD from the University of Cambridge/MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (2005) MRCP qualification (2007) Research Interests: His work explores how viruses exploit cellular machinery like autophagy, with studies on LC3 lipidation pathways, viral protein interactions, and immune evasion strategies. He also investigates SARS-CoV-2 variants, vaccine efficacy, and antibody responses in immunocompromised populations. Key Contributions: Discovered influenza's direct interaction with autophagy machinery Developed high-throughput testing strategies for SARS-CoV-2 Explored neutralizing antibody dynamics in Omicron and Delta variants Awards: MRC Clinician Scientist Fellowship (2015–2019) Labs/Teams: His group at the Crick collaborates with institutions like the Royal Free Hospital and the Worldwide Influenza Centre, focusing on virology, autophagy, and infectious disease.

• Applied Mathematics
• Numerical Analysis
• Mathematical Biology
• +3 more

Dr. Chandrasekhar Venkataraman is an Associate Professor in Mathematics at the University of Sussex's School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences. His research focuses on applied mathematics, numerical analysis, and mathematical biology, with a particular emphasis on modeling cell migration, reaction-diffusion systems, and biological pattern formation. He has contributed to understanding mechanisms in cancer biology, immunology, and plant pathology through computational frameworks. Key research interests include multiscale modeling, free boundary problems, and parameter identification in biological systems. He has secured grants from institutions like the Leverhulme Trust and Innovate UK for projects addressing drug discovery, cell manufacturing, and 3D cell migration dynamics. His work integrates mathematical theory with experimental data, as seen in collaborations analyzing tumor-immune interactions and cellular force estimation. Teaching responsibilities include courses on numerical analysis, discrete mathematics, and partial differential equations. Professional activities include editorial roles at Royal Society Open Science and participation in international workshops on multiscale modeling and oncology. His research has been published in high-impact journals such as Nature, Royal Society Open Science, and the Journal of Theoretical Biology.

James MacLeodView profile

Professor

• Equine Genetics
• Musculoskeletal Science
• Cartilage Development
• +4 more

James MacLeod is a Professor and John S. and Elizabeth Knight Chair in Equine Musculoskeletal Sciences at the University of Kentucky's Gluck Equine Research Center, part of the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. His research focuses on equine genetics, musculoskeletal biology, and regenerative medicine, particularly cartilage development and osteoarthritis. He holds a PhD in Pathology (1990) and a VMD in Veterinary Medicine (1984) from the University of Pennsylvania, along with a BS in Animal Science (1980) from the University of Delaware. Key research areas include the molecular mechanisms of articular cartilage growth, osteoarthritis progression, and genome annotation in horses. His lab has contributed to advancements in RNA sequencing techniques and functional genomics, including the equine reference genome. MacLeod has secured grants from organizations like the Morris Animal Foundation and the KY Horse Racing Commission, focusing on equine health and musculoskeletal disorders. He received the Prestigious Research Paper Award in 2009 and has authored over 90 peer-reviewed articles. MacLeod collaborates on projects such as Polyacrylamide for Joint Therapy and equine genome functional annotation. His work bridges basic research and clinical applications, aiming to improve equine health and welfare.

Ryan ZurakowskiView profile

Associate Professor

• Mathematical Modeling
• HIV Dynamics
• Biomedical Engineering
• +5 more

Ryan Zurakowski is an Associate Professor and Interim Department Chair in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Delaware. He holds a Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of California, Santa Barbara. His research focuses on developing mathematical models to understand viral disease dynamics, particularly HIV, with applications in biomedical engineering and control systems. Dr. Zurakowski’s work combines advanced modeling techniques with Bayesian inference to study cryptic HIV replication, drug efficacy, and reservoir persistence. His lab has demonstrated HIV’s ability to replicate in hidden body regions despite antiretroviral treatment, validated by collaborators at institutions like IRSI-Caixa and UCSF. He has also pioneered system identification methods for censored data, including the Tobit Kalman Filter, with applications in tracking and surveillance for the Army Research Laboratories. Research interests include information-optimal experiment design, censored-data estimation, and applying engineering principles to biomedical challenges. He collaborates with global institutions and prioritizes translating mathematical insights into actionable clinical strategies. For joining his lab, interested students and postdocs should contact him directly via ryanz@udel.edu with a CV and research interests.

Oliver BillkerView profile

Professor

• Malaria Research
• Parasitology
• Molecular Biology
• +5 more

Oliver Billker is a Professor at the Department of Molecular Biology, Umeå University, and serves as Manager of the Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS) research group. His research focuses on understanding the biology of malaria parasites and their interactions with mosquitoes, particularly investigating genetic mechanisms and transmission pathways. His work combines cutting-edge genomic tools, CRISPR screening, and single-cell technologies to uncover new insights into parasite development and host-pathogen interactions. Research interests include malaria parasite genetics, drug resistance mechanisms, mosquito vector biology, and the application of genomic approaches to identify novel drug and vaccine targets. Key achievements include the discovery of essential genes for transmission and the development of high-throughput genetic screening platforms for Plasmodium species. Notable awards include the Hirsch Prize and election as EMBO Member. His lab, the Oliver Billker Lab, collaborates internationally to advance malaria research. Recent grants include multi-million SEK investments for basic research at Umeå University and contributions to global initiatives like the Malaria Cell Atlas. Awards: Hirsch Prize EMBO Membership Grants/Projects: VR funding for basic research (2024) Nordic collaboration grants Malaria Cell Atlas initiative Labs/Teams: Oliver Billker Lab Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS) His research bridges fundamental biology and translational medicine, aiming to combat malaria through innovative approaches in genomics and systems biology.

Janice TelferView profile

Professor

• Immunology
• Hematopoiesis
• Transcription Factor Regulation
• +5 more

Janice Telfer is a Professor in the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She serves as Undergraduate Program Director and UMass Pre-Veterinary Medicine Advisor. Her research focuses on the role of RUNX family transcription factors in immune system development, particularly their influence on hematopoietic stem cells and leukemogenesis. She also investigates WC1 co-receptor function in bovine gamma delta T cells and the structural biology of SRCR domains. Telfer holds a Ph.D. from Harvard University (1995) and completed postdoctoral training at the California Institute of Technology. Her lab explores mechanisms linking transcriptional regulation to immune cell differentiation and cancer predisposition. She teaches courses in cellular/molecular biology, veterinary terminology, and immunology. Education: Ph.D., Harvard University, 1995 Postdoctoral Training: California Institute of Technology Affiliations: Director of Undergraduate Programs, Pre-Vet Advisor Research Interests: Her work integrates molecular, cellular, and structural approaches to study immune system regulation. Key areas include RUNX1's role in myeloid leukemogenesis, WC1 receptor signaling in bovine immunity, and structural characterization of SRCR domains involved in microbial recognition. Her lab uses retroviral expression systems and molecular modeling to investigate transcription factor networks and receptor-ligand interactions. Publications: Recent work includes studies on CD163 family evolution, WC1-mediated T-cell proliferation, and SRCR domain structure-function relationships. These investigations bridge basic immunology with veterinary medicine applications.

Keriayn SmithView profile

Associate Professor

• Non-coding RNA
• Genetics
• Epigenetics
• +4 more

Keriayn Smith, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Genetics at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine and holds a concurrent appointment as an Associate Professor in the School of Data Science and Society. Her research focuses on non-coding RNAs, particularly long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), exploring their roles in cell identity, developmental processes, and disease mechanisms. She has received significant grants, including an NSF award ($665,786) for studying lncRNA functions in yeast and mammalian cells, and a Hypothesis Fund Seed Grant for investigating noncoding RNAs' roles in cell identity. Dr. Smith’s work emphasizes translational applications, such as leveraging lncRNA insights for regenerative medicine and personalized therapies. She leads initiatives like the RNA Discovery Center at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, promoting diversity in RNA research. Notably, she chairs the Society for Scientific Advancement (SOSA), advocating for STEM accessibility in underserved regions and underrepresented groups. Her grants include a UNC Idea Grant for studying the oncogenic role of lncRNA Cyrano in neuroblastoma and supplemental funding during the pandemic to explore lncRNA roles in stem cell maintenance. Recent articles highlight her contributions to understanding lncRNA networks, epigenetic regulation, and interdisciplinary collaborations in genomics. Awards include the Junior Faculty Development Award from the UNC Provost’s Office, recognizing her project on comparative transcriptomics in ozone-exposure models. Dr. Smith’s research bridges basic science with clinical impact, addressing systemic risks to health through innovative, high-risk projects.