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Jason D. WecksteinView profile

Associate Professor

• Host-parasite coevolution
• Ornithology
• Systematic biology
• +5 more

Jason D. Weckstein is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental Science at Drexel University and an Associate Curator of Ornithology at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. His research focuses on phylogenetics, host-parasite coevolution, ornithology, and biodiversity surveys. Education: PhD in Zoology from Louisiana State University (2003) MS in Zoology from University of Minnesota (1997) BS in Natural Resources from University of Michigan (1993) Weckstein's work explores the intricate relationships between birds and their parasites, using molecular phylogenetics, genomics, and comparative biology approaches. His research spans biogeography, disease ecology, and the impact of environmental changes on parasite dynamics in avian communities. Recent publications highlight his expertise in phylogenomics, haemosporidian parasite ecology, and louse systematics. Key themes include migration's influence on parasite distribution, host specificity patterns, and the role of historical biogeographic events in shaping parasite diversity. He maintains the Weckstein Lab ( symbiont.ansp.org/weckstein_lab ) at the Academy of Natural Sciences, where he integrates museum collections for biodiversity research and public outreach.

Sara BrancoView profile

Assistant Professor

• Fungal Ecology
• Environmental Adaptation
• Evolutionary Biology
• +2 more

Sara Branco is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Integrative Biology at the University of Colorado Denver's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. She directs research on fungal ecology and evolution in the Branco Lab, investigating ecological mechanisms driving microbial diversity in challenging environments through integrated field, laboratory, and computational approaches. Research Focus: Dr. Branco's work spans biological scales to examine: Adaptation mechanisms in extreme environments Genomic foundations of symbiotic relationships Community dynamics along environmental gradients Biotechnological applications of fungal properties Publication Trends: Her recent articles demonstrate: Advanced genomic analyses of stress adaptation Metal tolerance mechanisms in mycorrhizal systems Fungal community responses to extreme soils Innovative applications in sustainable biomaterials

• Cancer Biology
• Reproductive Biology
• Molecular Genetics
• +3 more

Dr. Peter Nicholls is an Assistant Professor at the University of Bradford's Faculty of Life Sciences, affiliated with the School of Chemistry & Biosciences and the Institute of Cancer Therapeutics. His research focuses on germ cell tumors' development and molecular pathways influencing chemotherapy sensitivity. He holds a PhD from Monash University (2012) and completed postdoctoral work at MIT's Whitehead Institute. Education: Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (Hons), 2007 PhD in Reproductive Biology, Monash University, 2012 Research Interests: Dr. Nicholls investigates how genetic/environmental factors drive gonadal tumor formation using model organisms. His work explores germ cell commitment failures leading to cancers in children and young adults, emphasizing translational research for biomarker discovery and therapeutic strategies. Awards: New Investigator Award, Society for Reproductive Biology (Australia) NHMRC Postdoctoral Fellowship (Australia) Hope Funds for Cancer Research Fellowship (USA) Teaching & Grants: Teaches modules like Practical Molecular Biology and Molecular Genetics. His lab's projects include analyzing germ cell tumor biomarkers and chemosensitivity mechanisms, supported by international collaborations. Labs/Teams: Active within the Institute of Cancer Therapeutics, focusing on interdisciplinary cancer research and clinical translation.

• Plant Physiology
• Plant Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• +4 more

Prof. Dr. Andreas Schaller is a Professor leading the Department of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry at the University of Hohenheim. His research focuses on plant peptide signaling, protease regulation, and plant defense mechanisms against pathogens and parasitic organisms. He also serves as Ombudsperson for promoting ethical scientific practices and addressing research misconduct. Key research areas include the biogenesis and function of plant peptide hormones (e.g., CLE, PSK, and systemin), proteolytic processing by subtilases and phytaspases, and the molecular basis of plant-parasite interactions. His work integrates genomic, biochemical, and proteomic approaches, exemplified by contributions to cucumber genome assembly (Cucumber-DB) and advancements in real-time plant defense monitoring systems. Publications highlight breakthroughs in understanding how peptides regulate abscission, anthocyanin biosynthesis, and stress responses. Collaborations span plant-microbe interactions, including studies on how fungal pathogens exploit plant cytokine signaling. Methodological innovations include improved protease assays and isotope-labeling techniques for studying peptide maturation. As Ombudsperson, he advocates for research integrity and ethical conduct within the academic community. His interdisciplinary approach bridges molecular mechanisms with broader ecological and agricultural implications.

• Ribonucleic acid (RNA)
• Data Analysis
• Bioinformatics
• +12 more

Erik Dassi is an Associate Professor at the Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO) within the University of Trento. His research focuses on RNA biology, particularly investigating RNA structure-functional relationships, translational control mechanisms, and their implications in cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and genetic disorders. He specializes in exploring how RNA modifications, G-quadruplex structures, and post-transcriptional regulatory networks drive disease processes and therapeutic resistance. Teaching activities include courses on Computational Biology, Cancer Genomics, Genomics Technologies, Programming, and Scientific Programming. His work emphasizes integrative approaches combining experimental and computational methods, such as polysomal profiling, allele-specific proteomics, and single-cell transcriptomics. Key research themes include: RNA G-quadruplex regulation of mitochondrial translation and energy metabolism ( n =3 articles in 2025), YTHDF proteins as tumor drivers in m6A pathways ( n =2 articles in 2024), and circular RNA roles in Huntington’s disease ( n =4 articles across 2021-2024). His work highlights translational reprogramming in cancer therapy resistance and RNA-based biomarker discovery.

• Computational Genomics
• Multi-Omics Analysis
• Adaptive Evolution
• +3 more

Abhisek Chakraborty is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Department of Biology, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Germany. He holds a PhD in computational genomics from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, India (2018–2023). His doctoral work focused on multi-omics approaches to study adaptive evolution in eukaryotic biological pathways. Currently, his research investigates autotoxicity protection mechanisms in Solanaceae family plants using multi-omics strategies. Education: PhD in Computational Genomics, IISER Bhopal, India (2018–2023) Research Interests: Computational genomics, multi-omics analysis, adaptive evolution, plant genomics, defense metabolism innovations, biosynthesis pathways in medicinal and invasive species. His work emphasizes understanding evolutionary adaptations through genomic and biochemical approaches. Publications Trends: Dr. Chakraborty’s publications focus on genome sequencing of economically important and medicinal plants (e.g., Annona squamosa, Tinospora cordifolia), invasive species (water hyacinth), and comparative genomics of avian and bovine species. His studies highlight genomic insights into medicinal properties, plant invasiveness, and evolutionary mechanisms. Awards/Grants: No specific awards or grants mentioned in the provided text. Lab/Teams: Engaged in collaborative research within the Department of Biology at Mainz University, focusing on plant genomics and defense metabolism. No specific lab names mentioned.

Elizabeth O’HareView profile

Associate Clinical Professor

• General biology
• Genetics (molecular and developmental)
• Biotechnology
• +1 more

Elizabeth O’Hare is a Clinical Associate Professor at the Department of Biological Sciences , Towson University. Her academic journey includes a B.S. in Molecular Genetics/Plant Biotechnology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a Ph.D. in Genetics from the University of California Davis, and a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Maryland School of Medicine focusing on the genetic etiology of complex traits. Education B.S. in Molecular Genetics/Plant Biotechnology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Ph.D. in Genetics, University of California Davis Postdoctoral Fellowship in Genetic Etiology of Complex Traits, University of Maryland School of Medicine Her research expertise spans Molecular and Developmental Genetics , Biotechnology , and Model Organisms (zebrafish and chick) , with a focus on understanding genetic mechanisms underlying human diseases and developmental disorders. She has contributed to studies on craniofacial-limb syndromes, lipid metabolism, β-cell mass deficits, and telomere biology. Dr. O’Hare teaches courses such as Introductory Biology for Health Professions , Biotechnology , and Applied Biotechnology , emphasizing active learning and interdisciplinary connections. Her publications highlight collaborations with institutions like the University of California Davis, University of Maryland School of Medicine, and Towson University, addressing topics in genetics, medicine, and developmental biology. While no explicit scientific awards are listed, her work on genetic etiology and contributions to journals like Journals of Heredity , Circulation , and Hepatology underscores her academic impact. She utilizes zebrafish and chick models to bridge molecular genetics with human health applications.

Jhih-Rong LinView profile

Academic

• Genetics
• Genomics
• Aging and Longevity
• +3 more

Jhih-Rong Lin is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Genetics at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. His research focuses on understanding the genetic and genomic mechanisms underlying complex human diseases, particularly neurodegenerative disorders, longevity, and developmental syndromes. He employs computational and systems biology approaches to analyze genomic data, identify disease risk genes, and model genetic pathways. Key research themes include: Genetic variants associated with aging and neurodegeneration (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia) Post-GWAS analysis for disease gene prioritization (e.g., using tools like PGA) Evolutionary genomics of longevity (e.g., studies on beaver genomes) Epigenetic regulation in cancer progression and development Lin’s work bridges computational methods with experimental validation, contributing to drug discovery for aging-related conditions and improving understanding of genetic modifiers in syndromic disorders. His recent publications highlight discoveries in rare variant analysis, polygenic risk prediction, and systems-level aging mechanisms.

David HalaView profile

Associate Professor

• Environmental Toxicology
• Marine Biology
• Endocrinology
• +5 more

David Hala is an Associate Professor in the Department of Marine Biology at Texas A&M University at Galveston. His research focuses on understanding how environmental and anthropogenic stressors impact organism fitness, particularly through metabolic and endocrine systems in fish, reptiles, and mammals. He employs advanced techniques like mass spectrometry, computational biology, and systems toxicology to address questions about biological resilience and multi-level biological integration. Hala's work emphasizes translational research linking molecular perturbations to ecological outcomes. Education: Ph.D. Aquatic Ecotoxicology, Brunel University (UK), 2007 M.S. Aquatic Ecotoxicology, University of Plymouth (UK), 2002 B.S. Marine Biology and Oceanography, Bangor University (UK), 2001 Research Interests: Environmental stressors' effects on endocrine and metabolic systems Systems biology approaches to ecological toxicity Microplastic and pharmaceutical pollution impacts Adaptive physiology in reptiles and fish Advising & Mentorship: Hala currently mentors seven Ph.D. students in the Marine Toxicology Lab, focusing on training in conceptual frameworks, critical thinking, and applied research. His students study topics ranging from microplastic contamination to endocrine disruption mechanisms. Labs & Teams: He leads the Marine Toxicology Lab, which investigates stress physiology, biomarker development, and ecosystem-level pollution effects. Collaborations include projects on Hurricane Harvey's environmental impacts and PFAS contamination following industrial disasters.

Lori BurrowsView profile

Professor

• Antimicrobial resistance
• Bacteriology
• Biochemistry
• +6 more

Professor Lori Burrows is a distinguished microbiologist at McMaster University's Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences. She serves as the Associate Director (Partnerships and Outreach) of McMaster University's Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Diseases Research. As a Fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology, she is recognized as an international expert in bacterial pathogenesis, particularly in the study of type IV pili and their role in bacterial virulence. Dr. Burrows' primary research interests focus on the structure, function, and regulation of type IV pili (T4P), which are ubiquitous bacterial virulence factors used for adherence, DNA uptake, biofilm formation, and twitching motility. Her laboratory primarily uses the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa as a model system to investigate pilin repertoire (relevant to vaccine design), pilin glycosylation systems involved in bacteriophage defense, structure-function of the pilus assembly system, and the complex regulation underlying T4P function. Additionally, her group studies biofilm formation, particularly the stimulation of biofilm development by sub-inhibitory antibiotic concentrations and the exploitation of this stimulation phenotype to discover new antimicrobials for multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria. Dr. Burrows' research program is robustly funded by multiple prestigious sources including the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, the Canadian Glycomics Network, the Ontario Research Fund, and industrial support. Her publication record is impressive, with over 120 peer-reviewed papers, reviews, and book chapters, and an h-index of 49. Her recent work demonstrates continued leadership in understanding bacterial pathogenesis mechanisms, antibiotic resistance, and novel approaches to antimicrobial development. Fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology Dr. Burrows serves on the Editorial Boards of the Journal of Bacteriology (ASM), the Journal of Biochemistry (ASBMB), and ACS Infectious Diseases, demonstrating her significant contributions to the scientific community. Her laboratory, the Burrows Lab, is affiliated with both the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research and the David Braley Centre for Antibiotic Discovery at McMaster University, positioning her research at the forefront of infectious disease and antibiotic discovery.

Andrew InkpenView profile

Associate Professor

• Philosophy of Science
• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology
• +3 more

Andrew Inkpen is an Associate Professor at Mount Allison University, specializing in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of philosophy of science, ecology, and evolutionary biology. His work critically examines conceptual boundaries in science, particularly the artificial-natural distinction, and explores themes such as microbial community dynamics, CRISPR technology's evolutionary implications, and the ethical dimensions of environmental science. His research interests include the theoretical foundations of ecology, the philosophy of evolutionary biology, and the integration of microbiome studies into health paradigms. Inkpen frequently bridges disciplinary gaps, addressing topics like the Anthropocene's impact on scientific frameworks and the ethical implications of ecological-economic interactions. Inkpen's recent publications emphasize adaptive regeneration across scales, the critique of Lamarckian interpretations of CRISPR, and the re-evaluation of units of selection in evolutionary theory. His work often involves historical analysis of scientific concepts, such as Darwin's use of domestication analogies, and their contemporary relevance. Though no specific grants or awards are listed, his publications indicate sustained engagement with high-impact interdisciplinary topics. His teaching and research likely contribute to Mount Allison University's programs in biology, environmental studies, and philosophy.

Xingen LeiView profile

Professor

• Molecular Nutrition
• Animal Science
• Nutritional Genomics
• +10 more

Xingen Lei is Professor of Molecular Nutrition in the Department of Animal Science and Division of Nutritional Sciences at Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), where he also serves as Associate Dean for the Office of Research and Innovation. He joined Cornell as an assistant professor in 1995, was promoted to associate professor in 2000, full professor in 2006, and associate dean in 2023. His research spans nutritional genomics, sustainable animal agriculture, and human health, with particular expertise in selenium metabolism, phytase development, and alternative protein sources. Lei pioneered the development of bacterial phytases now used in approximately 50 countries, which have reduced global phosphorus excretion from food animals by 30-50%. His work on converting poultry feathers and microalgal biomass into high-value feed proteins addresses critical challenges in global food security. Lei's publication portfolio includes 264 papers with an h-index of 74 and over 19,000 citations. His recent work focuses on selenium's role in diabetes and obesity, protein engineering of hydrolytic enzymes, development of alternative feed proteins, and biofortification of staple foods. His research employs diverse models including food-producing animals, laboratory species, and cellular systems to advance understanding of nutrient metabolism and develop practical applications for improving human health and environmental sustainability. 2025 CALS Outstanding Accomplishments in Research Award 2024 Editor-in-Chief, The Journal of Nutrition, ASN 2021 Fellow of National Academy of Inventors, USA 2017 FASS-AFIA New Frontiers in Animal Nutrition Award 2017 Gary L. Cromwell Award in Mineral Research Professor Lei has advised 145 graduate students, postdocs and visiting fellows while securing substantial grant support from federal and private sponsors. He currently leads a $10 million USDA/NIFA/SAS-funded project to empower the US broiler industry for sustainability and profit. His laboratory hosts 5-8 undergraduate researchers each semester, providing hands-on research experience in molecular nutrition and animal science.

Patrick MartoneView profile

Professor

• Marine Biodiversity
• Plant Evolution
• Biomechanics
• +3 more

Dr. Patrick Martone is a Professor in the Department of Botany at the University of British Columbia (UBC), affiliated with the Biodiversity Research Centre and the Beaty Biodiversity Museum. He specializes in phycology, focusing on the biodiversity, ecophysiology, and evolution of seaweeds. His research integrates field and lab experiments across scales of biological organization, from community dynamics to cellular development. He has held academic ranks at UBC since 2008, progressing from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor (2013) and full Professor (2019). Education: PhD in Botany from Stanford University (2007), BS in Biology from Duke University (1998). Postdoctoral research at Stanford University (2007–2008). Research Focus: Seaweed biomechanics, climate change impacts, calcification mechanisms, and evolutionary genomics. Key Projects: Investigating hydrodynamic performance of seaweeds, genomic analyses of cell wall biosynthesis, and kelp restoration protocols. His lab hosts a diverse team of graduate students and postdocs, with alumni contributing to academic and applied fields. He teaches courses such as BIOL320 (Survey of the Algae) and MRNE425 (Ecological Adaptations of Seaweeds). Lab activities include state-of-the-art facilities for water flume testing, PAM fluorometry, and genetic sequencing. Current work explores climate stress effects on coralline algae and kelp phenotypic plasticity.

• Histone Biology
• Epigenetics
• Cancer Biology
• +3 more

Siavash K. Kurdistani is a Professor and Department Chair of Biological Chemistry, and Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA. His research focuses on histone functions in biological processes and human diseases, employing interdisciplinary approaches including biochemistry, genetics, and high-throughput methods. He holds dual MD and BS degrees from Harvard Medical School and UCLA, with postdoctoral training at UCLA in Chromatin Biology. Key roles include leadership in chromatin research, cancer epigenetics, and collaborations in stem cell and yeast model systems. Education: Santa Monica College, AA (1991) UCLA, BS in Biochemistry (1994) Harvard Medical School, MD (1999) UCLA Postdoctoral Fellowship in Chromatin Biology (2004) Research Interests: Histone biology, epigenetic regulation in cancer, chromatin structure, cellular metabolism, and evolutionary mechanisms of histones. His lab explores histone roles in disease using cancer cells, stem cells, and yeast models. Awards: Howard Hughes Medical Institute Fellowships, NIH Innovator Award, Beckman Young Investigator Award, ASCI membership, and numerous prizes. Grants & Labs: Leads a lab at UCLA investigating histone enzymatic functions and epigenetic pathways, with funding from HHMI, NIH, and the Keck Foundation. Active in translational research linking chromatin biology to human disease.

Simon CoxView profile

Professor

• Brain and Cognitive Ageing
• Neuroimaging
• Lifecourse Correlates of Brain Structure
• +3 more

Professor Simon Cox is a leading academic in brain and cognitive ageing at the University of Edinburgh's School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences. As a Sir Henry Dale Fellow and Director of the Lothian Birth Cohort Studies, he investigates lifecourse determinants of brain structure and cognitive differences using multi-cohort neuroimaging and genomic data. Principal Investigator on Age UK, BBSRC, ESRC, and NIH-funded projects Research focuses on neurodevelopment, epigenetics, and environmental influences on ageing Research Interests span: Brain-cognition relationships across the lifespan Multi-omics approaches to neurodegeneration Environmental and genetic mediators of cognitive decline Neuroimaging methodology development Frailty and multimorbidity in ageing populations Life-course epidemiology of brain health Selected Publications (2023-2025) reveal trends in: Epigenetic biomarkers of brain ageing Genomic structural equation modeling Environmental impacts (air pollution, socioeconomic status) Neuroinflammation and mental health Connectomic analysis of depression Vascular risk and brain structure Scientific Awards : Sir Henry Dale Fellowship National Institute on Aging R01 funding NIH RF1 grant for Alzheimer's research PhD Supervision includes projects on: PRENCOG cohort (preterm birth effects) Wellcome-funded mental health data science Translational neuroscience (15+ students)