Rita Ayyangar, M.D., is a Clinical Professor at the University of Michigan's Michigan Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. She practices at 2205 Commonwealth Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, United States, and holds an ORCID identifier 0000-0002-8638-0475. Her work spans clinical, research, and teaching domains. MB BS, Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College, Pune, India (1979–1984) Chief Resident, Columbus Hospital, Pediatrics, United States (May 1998–Jul 1989) Her research focuses on Cerebral Palsy , Neuromuscular Disorders , and Chronic Pain Management , particularly in pediatric populations. She explores Spinal Dysraphisms , Communication Disorders , and Rehabilitation Technologies like Infusion Pumps . Her scholarly trends emphasize Functional Assessment , Transitional Care , and Medical-Legal Advocacy . Scientific Awards & Grants UCP Institutional Clinical Fellowship Grant (1995–1999) Intrathecal vs Oral Baclofen Study (2003–2012) NIH Grant for Inspection Time Study (2008–2010) MI-LEND Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (2016–2024) Medical-Legal Partnership Grants (2014–2016) She mentors through hands-on workshops like "POTS" (2024), focusing on Ultrasound-Guided Chemodenervation . While no lab or team details are explicitly mentioned, her collaborations with co-authors like Katherine Alter , Eric Hurvitz , and Daniel Cifu highlight her interdisciplinary approach.
Sandra Siegert is a Professor in the Life Sciences Department at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA). Her research focuses on understanding how microglia interact with neuronal networks in both healthy and diseased states, particularly in the context of neuropathological disorders. She integrates knowledge from virology, immunology, molecular biology, neuroscience, and applied mathematics to study microglia's role in brain maintenance and disease progression. Education Dr. phil. nat in Neurobiology from the University of Basel (2005-2010) Diploma in Biological Sciences from Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main (2000-2005) Research Interests Dr. Siegert's work emphasizes microglia's response to environmental cues, their epigenetic regulation, and their contribution to neurological disorders like schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. Key areas include: Microglia-neuron communication in retinal and cortical circuits Role of microRNAs (e.g., miR-137) in synaptic plasticity 60-Hz light entrainment effects on brain plasticity Applied topology for analyzing cellular networks Human iPSC-derived microglia modeling Publication Trends Her recent articles highlight interdisciplinary approaches to studying microglia in retinal organoids, mitochondrial dynamics in stress response, and chimeric GPCR tools for modulating neuroimmune activity. Collaborative work spans gene therapy vectors (AAV2/6), synaptic dysfunction in schizophrenia, and ketamine/light entrainment effects on perineuronal nets. Scientific Contributions EMBO short-term fellowship (2011) FWF Austrian Science Fund grant P 37131 (2023-2026) European Research Council grant 715571 (2017-2022) Human Frontiers Science Program grant (2012-2015) Multiple Swiss National Science Foundation grants (2011-2012)
Daniel Adolfo Llano is a Professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with multiple appointments: Professor in the Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Neuroscience Program, and Biomedical and Translational Sciences. He serves as Director of the MD/PhD Medical Scholars Program at Carle Illinois College of Medicine and Theme Lead at the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology. His office phone is (217) 244-0740. Dr. Llano leads a laboratory investigating auditory processing mechanisms, particularly how complex sounds like speech are decoded by the brain. His research focuses on: Descending cortical projections in auditory processing Neural basis of generative sensory models Aging-related auditory network dysfunction Neurodegenerative disease mechanisms (especially Alzheimer's) Using electrophysiological, optical, and anatomical approaches, his team studies cortical-subcortical interactions in the auditory pathway. His recent publications (2019-2025) demonstrate strong focus on: Advanced neuroimaging techniques (super-resolution ultrasound, two-photon microscopy) Alzheimer's biomarkers (pTau proteins, amyloid detection) Auditory system organization (cortical layers, inferior colliculus) Neurovascular relationships in neurodegeneration Environmental impacts on auditory processing Major Scientific Honors: Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE, 2019) Helen Corley Petit Scholar (2017) Benjamin Goldberg Professorial Scholar (2017) Advances in Medicine Award, Carle Hospital (2016) Golden Apple Teaching Award (2015) Excellence in Teaching Recognition (2012-2019, 2021) Dr. Llano leads a research team at the Beckman Institute focusing on auditory neuroscience and neurodegenerative diseases. The laboratory employs cutting-edge techniques including in vivo two-photon imaging, ultrasound localization microscopy, and electrophysiology to study auditory processing and neurovascular changes in aging and disease models.
Dr. Irene van de Vijver is an Assistant Professor at Utrecht University's Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences , affiliated with the Department of Experimental Psychology . Her research focuses on the intersection of cognitive neuroscience and behavioral control , particularly how frontal-subcortical networks support decision-making and habit formation across the lifespan. Key research areas: Brain connectivity , reinforcement learning , executive function , and emotion regulation Methodological expertise: EEG , MEG , MRI , and behavioral experiments Her work demonstrates how aging affects the balance between goal-directed and habitual behaviors, using multimodal neuroimaging and computational modeling. Recent publications highlight corticostriatal white matter as a critical substrate for rational decision-making and daily routine formation . She teaches at multiple levels including Applied Cognitive Psychology and Neuropsychology programs.
Franklin Brown is an Associate Professor of Clinical Neurology at Yale University, affiliated with the Yale School of Medicine and the Division of Neuropsychology. His clinical work focuses on patients with brain tumors, epilepsy, cancer-related cognitive complaints, multiple sclerosis, and brain injuries. He is renowned for developing the internationally used Brown Location Test (BLT) and the STEPS sleep treatment program , which address cognitive assessment and student sleep education, respectively. Education: PhD (Louisiana Tech University, 2002), MA (Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, 1996), BA (Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, 1994) His research spans visual memory , cognitive inefficiency , and their applications in epilepsy and multiple sclerosis , with a focus on improving diagnostic accuracy and understanding subcortical stroke impacts. Recent publications highlight trends in neuropsychological testing , sleep research , and cognitive biomarkers for neurological diseases. Collaborations include Yale Cancer Center, Pediatric Epilepsy Program, and Yale Ventures. He volunteers on boards (AACN & AACNF), reviews certifications, and advocates for diversity in neuropsychology.
Professor Simon Kennedy is a Professor of Vascular Pharmacology within the School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health at the University of Glasgow, where he has been a faculty member since 2006. He currently serves as the Senior Senate Assessor for Student Conduct and holds various administrative roles including membership on the University Court, Education Policy & Strategy Committee, Finance Committee, and Audit and Risk Committee. Additionally, he is actively involved with the British Pharmacological Society, serving on their Finance and Awards Committees, and is a member of the editorial boards of two top-ranking pharmacology journals. Professor Kennedy's primary research focuses on vascular diseases and comorbidities, with particular emphasis on the role of perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) in vascular function. His work investigates the effects of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) within PVAT and the vascular wall, the impact of hypoxia on sphingosine kinase (SK) expression and function, and the role of connexins in cell communication affecting vascular function in both pulmonary and systemic circulations. His research spans cellular signaling mechanisms and vascular structure and function. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on vascular pharmacology with particular emphasis on AMPK signaling pathways, perivascular adipose tissue function, and vascular responses to various stressors. His work demonstrates strong interdisciplinary collaboration across pharmacology, vascular biology, and biomedical engineering, with increasing focus on translational applications including drug-eluting stent technology and vascular monitoring systems. Professor Kennedy serves as the coordinator for Level 4 of the Pharmacology degree program and teaches various final-year options, including an in vivo skills course funded by a British Pharmacological Society teaching grant. He acts as an academic advisor to approximately 40 undergraduate students and contributes to teaching across multiple degree programs including MBChB and BDS degrees. His external academic engagements include serving as an external examiner at two Russell Group universities and as treasurer of the Scottish Cardiovascular Forum. His research is conducted through the Cellular Signalling & Mechanisms and Vascular Structure & Function research groups, where he collaborates with colleagues within the School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health, College of Science and Engineering, and external partners. His work bridges basic science with clinical applications, particularly in understanding vascular pathophysiology and developing therapeutic approaches for vascular diseases.
Daniel Kay is an Assistant Professor in Psychology and Neuroscience at Brigham Young University , focusing on the mechanisms and functions of sleep, particularly in relation to psychiatric disorders. His work bridges genes, brain circuits, and behavior to address insomnia's role in depression and suicidality. Education: PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Florida (2013); Postdoctoral Training in Translational Sleep Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh. Research Interests: Sleep neuroimaging, insomnia pathophysiology, sleep valuation, and circadian dysfunction in psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. His Google Scholar publications (2025) emphasize adolescent sleep dynamics, suicide ideation links, and neuroimaging of insomnia. Recent trends include genetic factors (APOE4), circadian-behavioral interactions, and sleep valuation frameworks. Scientific Awards: Sleep Research Society Outstanding Early Investigator Award (2018–present). Membership: Sleep Research Society (2007–present), American Academy of Sleep Medicine (2005–present). Teaching: Sleep Psychology, Neurobiology of Psychology, and Research Methods. Licensure in Utah with pursuit of Behavioral Sleep Medicine certification.
Michael K Lee is a Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Minnesota Medical School, specializing in Neuroscience, Genetics, and Mechanisms of Cancer. His research focuses on neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, with emphasis on alpha-synuclein pathology, transgenic mouse models, and mechanisms of neurodegeneration. Dr. Lee's research interests center on the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative disorders. His work extensively examines alpha-synuclein and its role in Parkinson's disease and related synucleinopathies, as well as the interplay between alpha-synuclein and tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease. He investigates cellular senescence, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress pathways, and adaptive stress responses as potential therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative conditions. His laboratory utilizes transgenic mouse models to study protein aggregation, neurotoxicity, and cognitive impairment mechanisms. Analysis of Dr. Lee's recent publications reveals a strong focus on alpha-synuclein pathology across multiple neurodegenerative conditions. His research spans from basic molecular mechanisms to translational therapeutic approaches, with particular attention to sex differences in disease presentation and response to interventions. The publications demonstrate ongoing work on novel therapeutic strategies including metabolic interventions, mitochondrial modulation, and stress response pathway targeting. Dr. Lee serves as Principal Investigator on multiple significant research grants totaling 29 projects with 25 completed and 4 currently active. His major funding sources include the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, the U.S. Department of Defense, the Henry M. Jackson Foundation, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), particularly the National Institute on Aging. His current active projects include: Senescence in Parkinson's disease and related disorders (funded by Michael J. Fox Foundation, 2025-2027) Targeting a novel adaptive stress response pathway for therapeutic intervention in alpha-synuclein-induced dementia (funded by DoD and Medical University of South Carolina, 2023-2026) Monoaminergic neurotransmitter impairment from TBI as an early mechanism in neurodegenerative disease (funded by DoD and Henry M. Jackson Foundation, 2023-2026) Regulation of human tau expression and tauopathy by alpha-synuclein (funded by NIH National Institute on Aging, 2022-2027) Dr. Lee's research group utilizes transgenic mouse models, particularly those expressing human alpha-synuclein mutations like A53T, to investigate mechanisms of protein aggregation, neurodegeneration, and cognitive impairment. His laboratory appears to focus on both basic mechanisms of neurodegeneration and translational approaches for therapeutic intervention, with recent work examining intranasal delivery systems for neuroprotective compounds.
Carrie Down Johnston, M.D., serves as Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Weill Cornell Medical College and Assistant Attending Physician at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, she specializes in HIV care at the Center for Special Studies (HIV/AIDS) in New York City. Her academic foundation includes a B.S. from Cornell University (2008), M.D. from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine (2013), and M.S. in Clinical and Translational Science from Weill Cornell Graduate School (2020). She completed residency, chief residency, and infectious diseases fellowship at Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Johnston's research program investigates inflammation, cellular stress, and cognitive dysfunction in older adults with HIV , seeking to improve healthy aging through biomarker discovery. Her work prominently features cell-free mitochondrial DNA as a predictor of geriatric syndromes, with significant contributions to understanding cardiometabolic risks, neurocognitive impairment, and social determinants of health in this population. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2020-2025) reveals three dominant research trajectories: (1) molecular mechanisms linking mitochondrial dysfunction to cognitive decline, (2) intersection of social factors (food insecurity, trauma history) with biological aging processes, and (3) comorbidity management including hepatic steatosis and cardiovascular risks. Her Nature Communications paper on SARS-CoV-2 vaccination exposing latent HIV demonstrates innovative immunological approaches. Dr. Johnston leads major NIH-funded initiatives including: Principal Investigator: Northeast/Caribbean AIDS Education and Training Centers (NICHD, 2024-2025) Principal Investigator: Cellular Immunometabolic Mechanisms in HIV-Related CVD (NHLBI, 2021-2026) Co-Investigator: Aging with HIV: Novel Biomarkers of Inflammation (NIA, 2024-2029) Co-Investigator: Weill Cornell-Rutgers Clinical Trials Unit (NIAID, 2021-2025) She maintains active industry collaborations with MedPage Today and Theratechnologies Inc., focusing on clinical education and therapeutic development for HIV management.
Dr. Pilar Fernández Martín is an Assistant Professor at the University of the Balearic Islands, affiliated with the School of Psychology's Department of Psychology. She holds a PhD and teaches courses such as Cognitive Therapies, Psychopathology, and Third-Generation Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies at both undergraduate and master's levels. Her research focuses on attentional control mechanisms, neuromodulation techniques, and behavioral profiles of neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly ADHD. Recent work explores metabolic biomarkers, functional connectivity, and the impact of environmental stressors like pandemic confinement on ADHD-affected families. She has contributed to educational innovation through multimodal e-books and gamification tools like escape rooms, aiming to enhance student engagement. Her publications span neuroscience, psychiatry, and educational technology, reflecting interdisciplinary expertise. Key trends in her research include dimensional approaches to psychiatric disorders, neuroimaging applications, and computational modeling of decision-making processes.
Peter von Staden serves as Associate Professor of International Business and DBA Program Director at KEDGE Business School, while maintaining a research associate position at Lyon's East Asia Institute (IAO). His academic foundation includes a PhD in Economic History from the London School of Economics (2003). Education PhD in Economic History, London School of Economics, 2003 Dr. von Staden's research program centers on Japanese economic history from the Taisho to early Showa periods, contemporary Japanese political economy (1990-present), and comparative East Asian innovation systems. His work uniquely bridges historical analysis with current corporate-government dynamics, particularly examining how institutional frameworks shape market construction and technology transfer processes. This dual historical-empirical approach reveals persistent patterns in Japan's business ethics evolution and South Korea's innovation challenges. His 2016-2023 publications demonstrate consistent focus on institutional change mechanisms, with increasing emphasis on socio-cognitive explanations for technology commercialization failures in East Asia. The body of work reveals three evolving trajectories: historical business ethics frameworks (2016), micro-foundations of institutional change (2017), and detailed analyses of South Korea's innovation system pathologies (2018-2023), all unified by examination of corporate-state relations. No scientific awards were documented in the source materials. As DBA Program Director, Dr. von Staden oversees doctoral education in business administration though specific supervisees weren't listed. His research program appears institutionally supported through KEDGE and IAO affiliations, though specific grant details weren't provided. No dedicated research laboratories or structured research teams were referenced in the available documentation.
Dr. Binu Thomas is an Assistant Professor at UT Southwestern with primary appointments in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Radiology , and adjunct roles at UT Arlington and UT Dallas. His research bridges neuroscience and biomedical engineering, focusing on brain vascular function, metabolism, and aging-related cognitive decline. Education: PhD in Biomedical Engineering from UT Southwestern and UT Arlington His work investigates cerebrovascular reactivity , brain metabolism , and neurovascular coupling in aging, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), hypertension, obesity, and conditions like Moyamoya disease and multiple sclerosis. Recent studies highlight applications of fMRI , MRI techniques , and exercise interventions to mitigate dementia risk. Publications reveal expertise in hemodynamic mapping , cerebrovascular reserve , and neurovascular interactions , with a focus on translating imaging methods into clinical biomarkers. He collaborates extensively with the Advanced Imaging Research Center at UT Southwestern, integrating advanced MRI protocols and metabolic imaging.
Laura Schmitt is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Speech and Hearing Science at the University of Iowa. She specializes in evaluating and treating language and cognitive-communication impairments resulting from stroke, traumatic brain injury, and progressive neurological diseases like Parkinson's disease and primary progressive aphasia. Her clinical work focuses on spoken language, comprehension, reading, writing, and cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and executive dysfunction. Facilitates the Modalities Aphasia Group - Improving Communication (MAGIC) and Aphasia Reading Club (ARC) support groups Provides aural rehabilitation services for hearing loss prevention and cochlear implants Research interests include neurogenic disorders, neurological voice disorders, and culturally responsive communication strategies for individuals with aphasia.
Javier Márquez Ruiz is a Professor at the Universidad Pablo de Olavide within the Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Cell Biology. His work focuses on translational neuroscience with emphasis on transcranial electrical stimulation , cerebellar plasticity , and neurodegenerative disorders . He leads the tNeuro Translational Neuroscience Group and collaborates with the Neuroscience Laboratory. PhD in Neuroscience (2008) from the University of Seville His research explores electrophysiological mechanisms underlying brain stimulation techniques using in vivo animal models , particularly awake mice and behaving rabbits. Key areas include excitation-inhibition balance , Purkinje cell dynamics , and translational applications for conditions like Alzheimer's and autism. Recent publications examine gamma-tACS and tDCS effects across cortical and cerebellar regions. His work integrates computational modeling with experimental neurophysiology to understand how non-invasive stimulation modulates sensory processing and motor learning. Though no formal awards are listed, his publications demonstrate sustained contributions to neural plasticity and neurostimulation research . He participates in doctoral programs related to neuronal plasticity and cerebral cortex oscillations .
Dr Darren Lipnicki is a Research Fellow at the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA) and Study Co-ordinator of the COSMIC (Cohort Studies of Memory in an International Consortium) initiative. His research leverages harmonized global cohort data to investigate dementia epidemiology, cognitive aging trajectories, and modifiable risk factors across diverse populations. Research Focus : Dr Lipnicki's work emphasizes: Global disparities in dementia risk and cognitive decline Cardiometabolic, lifestyle, and psychosocial determinants of brain health Advanced statistical harmonization of international neurocognitive datasets Validation of dementia phenotypes and biomarkers Publication Trends : His recent articles (2019–2025) reveal consistent themes: Meta-analyses of multinational cohort data Focus on vascular/metabolic comorbidities and depression Emphasis on ethnocultural diversity and data harmonization methods Exploration of sensory deficits (e.g., olfactory dysfunction) as dementia predictors Collaborations : He coordinates the COSMIC consortium, integrating research from >20 longitudinal aging studies worldwide to advance dementia prevention strategies.
