Find Academic Supervisors

• MR Physics
• Functional MRI
• Brain Mapping
• +5 more

Maolin Qiu, PhD, is an Associate Research Scientist in the Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging at Yale University School of Medicine. Dr. Qiu is a key member of the Bioimaging Sciences division and works within the Magnetic Resonance Research Center (MRRC), where he contributes to cutting-edge neuroimaging and MR physics research. His work spans multiple collaborative projects across Yale's imaging facilities, including the Yale Biomedical Imaging Institute. Dr. Qiu holds a PhD in Artificial Intelligence and Computer Vision from the Institute of Automation (1996) and an MSc in Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous System Control from Beijing Institute of Technology (1993). His educational background in computer vision and AI provides a strong foundation for his current work in medical imaging physics and analysis. Dr. Qiu's research focuses on MR physics and applications, with particular expertise in functional MRI, cerebral blood flow measurement, anesthesia effects on brain function, and cardiac imaging techniques. His work bridges engineering principles with clinical applications, developing novel imaging methods to better understand brain function under various conditions including anesthesia. He has made significant contributions to understanding how anesthetic agents like sevoflurane affect regional cerebral blood flow, BOLD responses, and functional connectivity in the human brain. Analysis of Dr. Qiu's publication record reveals a strong focus on neuroimaging techniques, particularly fMRI methodology development and applications. His work spans multiple disciplines including neuroscience, anesthesiology, cardiology, and sports medicine. A consistent theme throughout his career has been the development and application of advanced MRI techniques to measure physiological parameters like blood flow and oxygenation in various tissues. Collaborates extensively with Todd Constable (5 publications) Works closely with Nallakkandi Rajeevan (5 publications) Partners with D. S. Fahmeed Hyder (3 publications) Collaborates with Michelle Hampson and Xenophon Papademetris (2 publications each) Has published with Albert Sinusas in cardiovascular applications Dr. Qiu's research has resulted in numerous publications spanning from 2004 to 2023, with recent work focusing on cardiac MRI techniques, ketamine effects on brain function, and software tools for improving MRI acquisition. His most recent publications demonstrate continued innovation in MR physics and applications across multiple organ systems. His work on HALO (a real-time head alignment tool) exemplifies his focus on practical solutions to improve MRI data quality through software development.

Tracy TranView profile

Professor

• Cellular Neurobiology
• Neuronal Wiring
• Neural Circuit Formation
• +7 more

Tracy Tran serves as a Professor of Cellular Neurobiology and Director of Undergraduate Programs in Biology at Rutgers University's Department of Biological Sciences. Her research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern neuronal wiring, with implications for neurological disorders such as autism spectrum disorder. Location: 601D Life Sciences Center Contact: Phone: 973-353-5542, 973-353-5543 | Email: tstran@rutgers.edu Education: B.S. in Physiological Sciences/Neuroscience, University of California, Los Angeles (1998) Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles (2003) Postdoctoral Training: National Institutes of Health (NIH), NINDS, Neurogenetics Branch (2003-2004) Postdoctoral Training: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience (2004-2010) Dr. Tran's research centers on how molecular cues regulate neuronal morphogenesis, synapse development and refinement, with particular focus on neural circuit formation. Her laboratory employs cellular, molecular, and genetic approaches to analyze both central and peripheral nervous systems in mice, using sophisticated techniques including mouse genetics, CRISPR, physiology, and behavioral analysis. The work has significant implications for understanding autism spectrum disorder and other neurological conditions. Analysis of Dr. Tran's publication history reveals a consistent focus on semaphorin signaling, neuropilin function, and neuronal connectivity. Her research demonstrates how specific molecular pathways (particularly involving Plexin-A4, FARP2, and Rac1) control dendritic morphogenesis and axonal guidance. Recent publications show an increasing emphasis on the relationship between neural circuit formation and neurological disorders, particularly autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Tran actively mentors undergraduate and graduate students through multiple research courses including Problems in Biology (21:120:491 and 492), Introduction to Neuroanatomy, and specialized graduate courses in Cellular Neurobiology and Neurodevelopment. Her laboratory appears to receive significant research funding supporting the sophisticated genetic and molecular approaches described in her publications. The Tran Lab focuses on developmental neurobiology, particularly investigating how molecular cues regulate neuronal morphogenesis and synapse development. Current research includes examining the dysregulation of Neuropilin-2 expression in inhibitory neurons and its impact on hippocampal circuit development and autism-related behaviors, as highlighted in their recent publication in Molecular Psychiatry.

Susan C SchwerinView profile

Academic

• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Neuroplasticity
• Neuroimaging
• +3 more

Susan C. Schwerin is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences School of Medicine in Bethesda, Maryland. With over a decade of experience at the institution, she has established herself as a specialist in traumatic brain injury research using gyrencephalic animal models. Her educational background includes: PhD in Neuroscience from Northwestern University Institute for Neuroscience (2005) Postdoctoral Fellowship in Neuroscience at the University of Florida (2006-2009) Postdoctoral Fellowship in Neuroscience at Uniformed Services University (2009-2013) BS in Biological Sciences from Michigan Technological University (1995) Dr. Schwerin's research primarily focuses on traumatic brain injury and neuroplasticity, with particular expertise in developing and utilizing ferret models for studying brain trauma. Her work bridges experimental neuroscience with clinical applications, investigating how brain injuries affect neural pathways and behavioral outcomes. She has made significant contributions to understanding the progression of histopathological and behavioral abnormalities following mild traumatic brain injury. Her publication record shows a consistent trajectory of high-impact research in neuroimaging techniques, particularly diffusion MRI and DTI, for detecting brain alterations following injury. Her work spans from basic methodology development (creating population-based MRI templates for ferret brains) to clinical applications (studying sleep disruption and motor recovery patterns). The research demonstrates a strong emphasis on translational neuroscience, with findings that have implications for human traumatic brain injury diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Schwerin's collaborative approach is evident in her extensive publication record, working with researchers across various disciplines including neuroimaging, neurophysiology, and rehabilitation science. Her work on ferret models has established this species as a valuable gyrencephalic model for studying traumatic brain injury, filling an important gap between rodent models and human studies.

• Developmental Psychology
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Brain Plasticity
• +2 more

Elisabeth Wenger is a Visiting scientist at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development (MPIB) in Berlin, Germany, affiliated with the Developmental Psychology research team. Her work investigates brain plasticity and structural changes across the human lifespan using advanced neuroimaging techniques. Her educational background includes: Dr. rer. nat. (Doctor of Natural Sciences) from Humboldt University of Berlin in 2014 Dipl.-Psych. (Diplom in Psychology) from Free University of Berlin in 2010 Dr. Wenger's research centers on brain plasticity across the lifespan, specifically examining temporal sequences and functional correlates of anatomical brain changes through structural imaging. Her current project "Plasticity mechanisms and progression" explores non-linear progression of experience-dependent volume changes in the motor cortex during skill acquisition. This work challenges linear models of brain adaptation by demonstrating expansion followed by renormalization of brain tissue, with implications for cognitive development, aging, and neurorehabilitation. Her 2017 publications in Nature Reviews Neuroscience , Trends in Cognitive Sciences , and Cerebral Cortex reveal consistent themes: structural brain changes during learning follow non-linear trajectories, motor cortex volume alterations are experience-dependent, and longitudinal imaging captures dynamic plasticity mechanisms. Collectively, these studies establish her expertise in linking behavioral skill acquisition to neuroanatomical changes. As part of MPIB's Developmental Psychology team, she collaborates with leading researchers including Ulman Lindenberger and Martin Lövdén. Her work integrates psychology, neuroscience, and advanced imaging methodologies to advance understanding of human brain plasticity across the lifespan.

• Neuroscience
• Physiology
• Epilepsy Research
• +5 more

Dr. DERYA DENİZ KANAN serves as a Lecturer in the Department of Physiology within the Faculty of Medicine at Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University since 2017. Previously, she held a Lecturer position at Toros University's Medical Services and Techniques Department from 2014-2017. Her academic journey includes dual doctorates in Physiology from Erciyes University (2006-2011) and Çukurova University (2005-2006), along with multiple master's degrees in Pharmacology and Biology Education. Her research spans neuroscience, physiology, and pharmacology with particular focus on epilepsy models, Alzheimer's disease mechanisms, and neurodegenerative processes. Key interests include: Behavioral changes in experimental disease models Exosome roles in neurodegenerative conditions Sex differences in neurological responses Cognitive function assessment in animal models Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals consistent investigation of neurological disorders using rat models, with increasing focus on molecular mechanisms like exosomes and gene-related pathways in recent years. Current research projects include: Investigation of gender effects on brain histopathology in aluminum chloride-induced Alzheimer's models (2021-present) TUBITAK-supported Applied Basic Cell Culture Techniques Course (2024-present) Completed studies on fermented pollen effects in schizophrenia models and Hypericum perforatum efficacy in Alzheimer's disease She has contributed to textbook chapters including 'Neurotransmitters' (2018) and 'Physiology of Nervous System' (2016), and co-edited 'Human Physiology for Health Sciences and Higher Schools' (2023).

• Molecular Biology
• Genomics
• Transcriptomics
• +4 more

Yating Qin is a PhD Student and Guest Researcher in the Department of Biology at the Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen. Their research focuses on molecular biology, genomics, and transcriptomics with particular expertise in circular DNA analysis across diverse biological systems. Research interests include: Molecular mechanisms of extrachromosomal circular DNA formation and function Comparative genomics across evolutionary diverse species Single-cell and organ-wide transcriptomic mapping Evolutionary adaptations in marine and terrestrial organisms Yating Qin's publication record demonstrates significant contributions to understanding circular DNA across multiple organisms including zebrafish, mice, plants, lampreys, and marine mammals. Their work combines cutting-edge genomic techniques with evolutionary perspectives to address fundamental biological questions about DNA structure, cellular regeneration, and tissue responses to stress. Notable research contributions include: Development of comprehensive circular DNA atlases across multiple species Insights into heart regeneration mechanisms using zebrafish models Exploration of adipose tissue browning in non-mammalian vertebrates Investigation of connections between circular DNA and neurodegenerative diseases As an active researcher at the University of Copenhagen, Yating Qin collaborates with international teams and contributes to high-impact publications in leading journals including Nature Communications and Cell and Bioscience.

Blanca I. AldanaView profile

Associate Professor

• Brain energy metabolism
• Neurodegenerative disorders
• Glial cell function
• +7 more

Blanca I. Aldana is an Associate Professor and Group leader of the NeuroMetabolism Research Group at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology. Since 2024, she has served as Head of the Research Section in Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology. Her research focuses on unraveling central disease mechanisms to identify novel metabolic therapeutic targets in neurodegenerative disorders. Dr. Aldana's primary research areas include energy metabolism in the brain centered on glial cells (microglia and astrocytes) and their impact on neurological disorders such as epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, and Frontotemporal dementia. She specializes in neuropharmacology targeting microglia and astrocyte receptors, with expertise in brain cell lines, primary cultures, transgenic animal models, and human induced pluripotent stem cells. Her laboratory employs advanced analytical methods including mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography, and live-cell bioenergetics. Her recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on brain energy metabolism, particularly examining glial cell function in neurodegenerative conditions. The research spans molecular and cellular mechanisms of brain energy and amino acid metabolism, pathophysiology of glial energy metabolism in neurodegeneration, and mechanistic insights into the effects of short-chain and medium-chain fatty acids on brain metabolism. This work has significant implications for developing novel therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases. 2024: Alzheimer-forskningsfonden Research Prize 2023: Nominated as Teacher of the Year, University of Copenhagen 2023: Emerging Investigator Award, International Society for Neurochemistry 2020: IBRO Early Career Award Dr. Aldana has supervised and mentored numerous Postdocs, PhD students, MSc students, and BSc students. She serves as course director for Farmaceutisk biologi and teaches in 'In-Vitro Techniques in Biochemistry and Pharmacology,' 'Principles of Pharmacology' for the MSc Neuroscience Program, and Physiology. She is also a member of the Drug Research Academy and Neuroscience Academy Denmark's Neuroinflammation column, and serves as communication responsible for the Metabolism and Inflammation Research Cluster.

Niels SkotteView profile

Assistant Professor

• Neuroscience
• Huntington's Disease
• Proteomics
• +5 more

Niels Skotte serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology within the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen. He is affiliated with the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, where he conducts cutting-edge research in neurodegenerative diseases and proteomics. Dr. Skotte earned his PhD in neuroscience in 2011 from the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine at the University of Copenhagen. Following his doctoral studies, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics in Vancouver, Canada, working with Prof. Michael Hayden, a world-leading expert in Huntington's disease. In 2015, he returned to Denmark to join Dr. Matthias Mann's laboratory, a pioneer in modern protein research. His primary research focus centers on Huntington's disease, where he has worked for over a decade, developing allele-selective anti-sense oligonucleotides and investigating strategies to limit huntingtin processing by modulating caspase-6 activity. Since 2015, his work has expanded into biofluid mass spectrometry, with current research focusing on identifying novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases, particularly temporal protein changes in cerebrospinal fluid and plasma from Huntington's disease patients. His recent publications demonstrate expertise in molecular pharmacology, neurodegeneration mechanisms, and advanced proteomic techniques. Analysis of his most recent publications reveals a strong focus on neurodegenerative disease mechanisms, with particular attention to Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and related disorders. His work integrates molecular biology, proteomics, and neuroscience to understand disease progression and identify potential therapeutic targets. The research spans from basic molecular mechanisms to translational applications, with increasing emphasis on biomarker discovery and validation. Dr. Skotte maintains active collaborations with researchers across multiple institutions, as evidenced by his co-authorship on numerous publications with colleagues at the University of Copenhagen and international partners. His work has gained significant attention in the scientific community, with multiple publications receiving substantial citations and mentions across various academic platforms. He is part of the research environment led by Dr. Matthias Mann at the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, which provides state-of-the-art facilities for proteomic analysis. This collaborative environment supports his work on identifying protein changes associated with neurodegenerative diseases, leveraging advanced mass spectrometry techniques to analyze complex biological samples.

• Neurological Rehabilitation
• Neurophysiology
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• +7 more

Brian Schmit, PhD is a Professor and Hammes Family Endowed Chair in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Marquette University, with a joint appointment at Medical College of Wisconsin. He serves as Associate Dean for Research in the OPUS College of Engineering and is an active researcher in neurological rehabilitation. Dr. Schmit's research focuses on neurophysiology of movement control following neurological injury, particularly spinal cord injury and stroke. His work encompasses biomechanics of gait and balance, diffusion tensor imaging applications in spinal cord disorders, and development of novel rehabilitation interventions including virtual reality and electrical stimulation approaches. With over 200 publications, his research has significantly contributed to understanding motor control mechanisms and developing evidence-based rehabilitation strategies. Analysis of his recent publications (2023-2025) reveals continued focus on advanced neuroimaging techniques, particularly diffusion MRI applications in spinal cord injury and stroke. His work increasingly integrates virtual reality approaches with traditional rehabilitation methods, and explores the relationship between cerebral oxygenation, hemodialysis, and cognitive function. His research maintains strong clinical relevance while applying sophisticated engineering principles to complex neurological problems. Outstanding Researcher Award, Marquette University College of Engineering (2005, 2017) Way-Klingler Science Fellowship (2008) College of Fellows, American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering (2018) Outstanding Graduate Educator, Medical College of Wisconsin (2019) Hammes Family Endowed Chair in Biomedical Engineering (2020) Dr. Schmit currently leads or collaborates on multiple NIH-funded projects totaling several million dollars, focusing on locomotor recovery post-stroke, advanced MRI of spinal cord injury, and ischemic conditioning approaches to improve motor function. His research group includes collaborators from multiple institutions and disciplines, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of his work. As Associate Dean for Research, he also plays a key role in shaping the research direction of Marquette's engineering college while maintaining an active laboratory focused on neurological rehabilitation.

Dosina MargaritaView profile

Researcher

• Stem Cell Biology
• Cancer Biology
• Cell Biology
• +4 more

Dosina Margarita is a Senior Researcher at the Institute of Physiology, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus in Minsk. Her research spans stem cell biology, neuroscience, and cancer biology with a focus on translational applications for brain injury and tumor treatment. Her primary research interests include: Stem cell migration mechanisms via perineural pathways for brain injury repair Nitric oxide dynamics in ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke models Microgravity effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis Tumor cell proliferation and chemotherapy response mechanisms Development of novel heterocyclic compounds for cancer treatment Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on experimental neuroscience using EPR spectroscopy, with significant work on stem cell therapies for stroke recovery. Her research demonstrates consistent international collaboration patterns, particularly with Russian and French institutions. Her research group utilizes advanced methodologies including: Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy for nitric oxide quantification Intranasal stem cell delivery techniques Raman spectroscopy for cell characterization Microgravity simulation platforms Primary tumor cell culture models Current projects focus on optimizing stem cell migration pathways for brain repair, developing adjuvant therapies to improve chemotherapy efficacy, and understanding fundamental cellular responses to gravitational changes.

• Quantitative MRI
• Diffusion MRI
• Medical Imaging
• +4 more

Dr. Samira Bouyagoub is a Research Fellow II at the Clinical Imaging Sciences Centre (CISC) within Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) and holds an affiliation with the School of Psychology at the University of Sussex. She is part of the MRI Physics group led by Prof. Mara Cercignani and has been at BSMS since February 2015. Dr. Bouyagoub's research focuses on quantitative MRI, particularly diffusion MRI which measures microstructural properties of tissue. She develops multimodal tissue modeling approaches by combining diffusion MRI and relaxometry to better understand changes in brain tissue properties. Her publication record shows expertise in applying these techniques to various neurological conditions including dementia, multiple sclerosis, ALS, and Tourette syndrome. Recent work (2023-2025) spans from microstructural changes in ALS patients to cerebral function parameters in HIV patients with insomnia. She is actively involved in research funding, currently participating in the CLIMB-ALS study funded by the Motor Neurone Disease Association and a study on anxiety in joint hypermobility funded by MQ TRANSFORMING MENTAL HEALTH. Her technical expertise extends to providing software and hardware support for fMRI research equipment at CISC. Dr. Bouyagoub contributes to teaching through student-selected components in Neuroscience and Behaviour, Academic Skills for first-year students, and an Anatomy and Physics module in the MSc Clinical Radiology program, demonstrating her commitment to training the next generation of medical professionals and researchers.

Boris ChevalView profile

Associate Professor

• Health Psychology
• Neuropsychology
• Physical Activity Behavior
• +4 more

Boris Cheval is an Associate Professor at École Normale Supérieure de Rennes, where he investigates the behavioral and brain mechanisms involved in the regulation of movement-based behaviors. His research focuses on understanding the 'exercise paradox'—why individuals intending to be physically active often fail to translate these intentions into actions. With a strong background in health psychology and neuroscience, Cheval has developed the Theory of Effort Minimization in Physical Activity (TEMPA), which proposes that humans have a natural tendency to avoid unnecessary physical effort, a mechanism that contributes significantly to the global pandemic of physical inactivity. Current Position: Associate Professor, École Normale Supérieure de Rennes (2023–present) Previous Positions: Senior Research Scientist, University of Geneva (2019–2023); Researcher, University of Geneva (2014–2018); Researcher, University of Ottawa (2013–2014); Researcher, University of Nice (2012–2013) Cheval's research interests span health psychology, neuropsychology, physical activity behavior, and cognitive neuroscience. He argues that the automatic attraction to effort minimization, while evolutionarily advantageous for conserving energy, has become maladaptive in modern sedentary environments. His work examines how built environments, social contexts, and psychological factors interact to influence physical activity decisions. A significant portion of his research explores how making physical activity the 'default option' in our environments, rather than sedentary alternatives, could effectively combat inactivity. His studies frequently incorporate ecological models of behavior that consider multiple levels of influence from individual factors to public policy. Analysis of Cheval's recent publications reveals a strong focus on effort perception, cognitive neuroscience of physical activity, and the relationship between sedentary behavior and health outcomes. His work spans multiple methodologies including genetic studies, neuroimaging, longitudinal observational research, and intervention studies. Notably, his research demonstrates that moderate physical activity provides 1.5 times greater cognitive benefits than vigorous activity, challenging assumptions about exercise intensity requirements. His publications consistently address the intention-behavior gap in physical activity through the lens of effort minimization theory, examining how automatic processes and environmental factors shape behavior beyond conscious intentions. Research Funding: Rennes Métropole Research Chair, European Union (Horizon) Key Publications: Theory of Effort Minimization in Physical Activity (2021), Genetic insights into the causal relationship between physical activity and cognitive functioning (2023) Cheval's work has significant implications for public health policy, urban planning, and educational environments. His research on school settings demonstrates how integrating movement into classroom learning can improve cognitive performance without sacrificing academic achievement. He advocates for rethinking school architecture and scheduling to make movement the default option, noting that French students collectively spend the equivalent of a full year seated during their schooling. His collaborative work emphasizes that addressing physical inactivity requires moving beyond individual motivation to consider environmental design, social determinants, and evolutionary predispositions toward effort minimization.

Michael X. ZhuView profile

Professor

• Ion channels
• Calcium signaling
• TRP channels
• +5 more

Dr. Michael X. Zhu is a Professor at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston with extensive expertise in ion channel research and calcium signaling. His academic background includes a Ph.D. from the University of Houston (1991), an M.S. from the University of Houston (1988), and postdoctoral training at Baylor College of Medicine (1994). Dr. Zhu's research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of ion channels, particularly Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels and two-pore channels (TPCs). His work has significantly advanced understanding of calcium signaling pathways in cellular physiology. He has made seminal contributions to the field, including the cloning and characterization of TRPC channels and the identification of TPCs as NAADP receptors in endolysosomal membranes. Analysis of Dr. Zhu's recent publications (2020-2022) reveals a strong focus on calcium signaling mechanisms, with particular emphasis on TRP channels and their roles in neuronal function, pain sensation, and disease processes. His work spans multiple disciplines including neuroscience, molecular pharmacology, and cell biology, demonstrating an integrative approach to understanding complex cellular signaling pathways. Dr. Zhu's research program addresses fundamental questions in cellular physiology with implications for understanding and treating various diseases, including neurological disorders, pain conditions, and metabolic diseases. His laboratory combines molecular, pharmacological, and physiological techniques to elucidate the mechanisms of ion channel function and regulation.

Xuecai GeView profile

Assistant Professor

• Neurodevelopment
• Molecular Biology
• Cell Signaling Pathways
• +5 more

Dr. Xuecai Ge is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of California, Merced. He serves as a key faculty member in Thrust 3 within the Center for Cellular and Biomolecular Machines, a National Science Foundation Center of Research Excellence in Science and Technology (CREST). Dr. Ge received his educational training at prestigious institutions, earning his Ph.D. from Harvard University in 2009 and his B.S. from Health Science Center, Beijing University in 2000. His academic journey has positioned him as a specialist in cellular and molecular neuroscience. Dr. Ge's research program focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodevelopment and related diseases. His laboratory investigates the developing cerebral cortex and cerebellum, with particular emphasis on how cell signaling pathways integrate to govern neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Key research questions include how signaling pathways are integrated at the cilium to control cell behaviors, how molecular signaling pathways interact to determine cell proliferation and fate in the developing brain, and how findings from cell cultures and animal models can clarify the pathogenesis of neural developmental disorders and pediatric brain tumors. His work bridges fundamental cellular biology with clinical applications in neurodevelopmental disorders. Based in the Science and Engineering Building (SE1), Room 253, Dr. Ge leads a research laboratory that contributes to the broader mission of the Center for Cellular and Biomolecular Machines. His research within Thrust 3 focuses on adaptive cellular communication, working alongside interdisciplinary teams to advance understanding of cellular mechanisms that could lead to therapeutic interventions for neurological conditions.

• Neuroscience
• Circadian Rhythms
• Molecular Neurobiology
• +3 more

Professor Martin Fredensborg Rath serves as Head of Department in the Department of Neuroscience within the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen. His research focuses on the photoneuroendocrine system regulating circadian rhythms, specifically investigating the suprachiasmatic nucleus, pineal gland, and retina through neuroanatomical and molecular biological approaches. His educational background includes an MSc in Human Biology (2005) and PhD in Medical Sciences (2009), both from the University of Copenhagen. His academic career progressed from Postdoc (2009-2013) to Assistant Professor (2013-2014), Associate Professor (2014-2020), and finally Professor of Experimental Neuroanatomy (2020-present). Rath's research centers on circadian rhythm mechanisms, particularly homeobox gene regulation in the pineal gland, clock gene function in neural tissues, and melatonin biosynthesis pathways. His work integrates molecular neurobiology with systems-level circadian physiology, emphasizing the neural regulation of peripheral clocks in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. His publication portfolio shows consistent focus on pineal gland neurobiology, with recent articles examining GLP-1 receptor effects on intracranial pressure (2025), 3D ultrastructure of pinealocytes (2024), and diurnal proteome dynamics in cortical astrocytes (2023). The research demonstrates strong methodology in molecular techniques combined with neuroanatomical analysis. Rath has secured substantial funding from major Danish research foundations including the Lundbeck Foundation (multiple awards totaling over 10 million DKK), Novo Nordisk Foundation, Carlsberg Foundation, and Independent Research Fund Denmark. He leads the Rath Lab comprising a technician, postdocs, assistant professor, and graduate students. His international experience includes research at the NIH (2004/2007) and University of Oxford (2019), reflecting his global scientific engagement.