Find Academic Supervisors

Francisco PelegriView profile

Professor

• Developmental Biology
• Cell Biology
• Genetics
• +3 more

Francisco Pelegri serves as Professor and Department Chair in the Department of Genetics and Medical Genetics at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His research bridges fundamental developmental mechanisms and conservation applications using zebrafish and related Danionin species as model systems. Dr. Pelegri earned his Ph.D. in Medical Genetics from MIT in 1994, followed by postdoctoral training at the Max-Planck Institute for Developmental Biology in Tübingen, Germany. His educational background established the foundation for his interdisciplinary approach combining genetics, embryology, and molecular biology. His research program spans two interconnected domains: (1) Cellular and developmental genetics focusing on maternal factors driving the egg-to-embryo transition and germ line specification in zebrafish; and (2) Conservation genetics developing reproductive technologies for biodiversity preservation. Using zebrafish as a primary model, his lab integrates live imaging, genetic manipulation, bioinformatics, and mathematical modeling to dissect cytoskeletal dynamics, RNA localization, and germ plasm organization. The conservation work leverages Danionin phylogenetics to engineer nucleocytoplasmic hybrids and germ-soma chimeras for rescuing endangered species. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2011-2019) reveals consistent focus on maternal-effect genes, germ plasm dynamics, and cytoskeletal reorganization during early embryogenesis. Key recurring themes include RNA granule assembly, calcium signaling in furrow formation, and stress granule components in developmental resilience. His work demonstrates how maternal factors establish embryonic axes and germ cell fate prior to zygotic genome activation. As Department Chair, Pelegri oversees academic operations while maintaining an active research program. His laboratory employs interdisciplinary methodologies to address fundamental questions in developmental biology with translational applications in species conservation. Current projects optimize biobanking protocols and inter-species reproductive technologies using Danionin fish as phylogenetic models for endangered species rescue.

Sestina FalconeView profile

Researcher

• Muscle Mass Homeostasis
• Skeletal Muscle Physiology
• Aging
• +4 more

Sestina Falcone is a permanent Researcher at the National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), currently affiliated with the Institute of Myology in Paris since 2013. Her scientific journey includes a PhD and HDR (Habilitation à Diriger des Recherches) in France, postdoctoral research in Milan (2000-2008), and academic positions focused on skeletal muscle physiology and aging. Education: PhD, HDR (Habilitation to Direct Research) Her research centers on skeletal muscle homeostasis, aging-related atrophy, and translational approaches to neuromuscular diseases. A key discovery identified CAVβ1E/GDF5 as a critical axis for muscle preservation in age-related atrophy, with therapeutic implications validated in mice and humans. Current projects aim to elucidate molecular mechanisms underlying neuromuscular pathologies. Her publications span mitochondrial imaging, centronuclear myopathy, dystrophinopathies, and muscle regeneration. These works intersect calcium channel dynamics, cytoskeletal organization, and gene expression regulation in muscle cells. Scientific Awards: Three patents filed for neuromuscular therapeutic strategies based on GDF5 signaling She works within the team led by France Piétri-Rouxel at the Institute of Myology, focusing on fundamental and translational studies of skeletal muscle physiology.

• Structural Biology
• Computational Biology
• Cytoskeleton
• +6 more

Kristina Djinovic-Carugo is a Professor of Molecular Structural Biology at the University of Vienna and Chair of the Department of Structural and Computational Biology since 2009. She leads a research group at the Max Perutz Labs in Vienna Biocenter, focusing on the structural biology of the cytoskeleton and sarcomere assembly. University of Vienna (2004–present) Elettra - Sincrotrone Trieste (1999–2004) European Molecular Biology Laboratory (1995–1999) University of Pavia (PhD, 1992) University of Ljubljana (BSc, PhD) Her research investigates molecular mechanisms of Z-disc assembly in muscles, α-actinin regulation by PIP2 and calcium, and phase separation in biomolecular condensates. She combines biochemical, biophysical, and structural biology methods for integrative modeling. Recent publications highlight her work on: 2021 Sci Adv: FATZ-1/α-actinin fuzzy complexes 2021 PLOS Biol: Myotilin’s role in sarcomere biogenesis 2020 PNAS: Calcium-regulated α-actinin flexibility 2020 Cryst Growth Des: Customized crystallization strategies 2014 Cell: α-actinin/PIP2 structural regulation 2014 EMBO Rep: F-BAR domain actin/membrane interactions 2017 PNAS: Titin-α-actinin single-molecule mechanics Her lab has secured major funding from the Austrian Science Fund (FWF), Christian Doppler Research Association, Wellcome Trust, and EU programs. Lab members include PhD student Philipp Galuska, PostDocs Shankar Kundapura, Eva Kutejova, Peter Sok, and Georg Mlynek, with lab manager Claudia Schreiner.

Anthony Ross JrView profile

Associate Professor

• Industrial Toxins
• Cell Physiology
• Microbiology
• +2 more

Anthony Ross Jr is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Bridgeport's College of Science & Society, with over 25 years of academic experience. He previously served as Associate Dean and faculty member in the Naturopathic College at UB (1999-2019), and began his career in the Chiropractic College (1996-1999). Ph.D. in Anatomical Sciences, Stony Brook University (1987) Postdoctoral Fellow, Yale University (1988-1991) Instructor, University of Massachusetts Medical School (1991-1996) Dr. Ross's research focuses on industrial toxins and their effects on cellular viability, particularly examining substances like glyphosate, amphotericin B, and chromate. His work spans neuroscience , cell biology , and molecular physiology , with a strong emphasis on understanding how toxins affect bacteria, protozoa, and eukaryotic cells at the molecular level. His publications over 35+ years reveal a consistent focus on acetylcholine receptor mechanisms , signal transduction pathways , and RNA localization processes , with recent work expanding into toxicological impacts on protozoan pathogens .

• Mechanotransduction
• Cell Biology
• Nanobiotechnology
• +4 more

Carsten Schulte is a Lecturer in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, with an active research career spanning over two decades. His work bridges engineering principles with cellular biology, focusing on how physical forces and topographical features influence cellular behavior and function. Dr. Schulte's research interests center on mechanotransduction, the process by which cells convert mechanical stimuli into biochemical signals. His work explores how nanoscale topographical features influence cellular adhesion, differentiation, and signaling pathways across various cell types including neurons, pancreatic beta cells, and cancer cells. He has made significant contributions to understanding the role of the glycocalyx, extracellular matrix, and cytoskeletal elements in mediating mechanotransductive responses. His publication record shows consistent output in high-impact journals including Nanoscale, Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, and Journal of Nanobiotechnology, with research trends indicating growing interest in patient-specific applications of mechanobiology principles, particularly in cancer research and regenerative medicine. Two prestigious scientific prizes recognizing contributions to nanobiotechnology and cell mechanics Extensive collaborative network across European institutions Research featured in multiple news outlets and cited in patents Dr. Schulte's work has practical applications in tissue engineering, biosensor development, and understanding disease mechanisms where mechanical forces play a critical role. His research group employs advanced techniques including atomic force microscopy, nanofabrication, and force spectroscopy to investigate cell-microenvironment interactions at the nanoscale level.

James E. BearView profile

Professor

• Cell Biology
• Actin Dynamics
• Cancer Cell Biology
• +5 more

James E. Bear, PhD, is a Professor of Cell Biology and Physiology and Pharmacology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine. He is also a member of the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center and serves as Co-Leader of the Cancer Cell Biology Research Program. Dr. Bear has been at UNC-Chapel Hill since 2003, rising from assistant professor to full professor, and became co-leader of the Cancer Cell Biology Program in 2014. He is also the founding faculty advisor of the Hooker Imaging Core. Dr. Bear is a cell biologist specializing in the regulation of actin dynamics, directional cell motility, and invasive tumor cell behavior. His research leverages expertise in multiple imaging modalities, including quantitative live-cell microscopy and intravital imaging of tumors using multi-photon microscopy. His work bridges fundamental cell biological processes with cancer research, particularly focusing on how cytoskeletal dynamics influence tumor cell invasion and metastasis. His publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to understanding cytoskeletal dynamics, with recent work expanding into mitochondrial function and the interplay between different cytoskeletal components. His research shows a clear trajectory from fundamental mechanisms of actin regulation to their implications in cancer biology. Jeffrey Houpt Distinguished Investigator Award, 2017 Omicron Delta Kappa, Honoris Causa, Davidson College circle, 2015 Ruth and Phillip Hettleman Prize for Artistic and Scholarly Achievement, 2010 HHMI Early Career Scientist, 2009-2015 Jefferson-Pilot Award, 2008 Dr. Bear has trained 10 PhD students and 9 postdoctoral fellows over the past 15 years, with three of his former trainees now holding faculty positions. His laboratory, part of the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, utilizes advanced imaging techniques to study cytoskeletal dynamics in both normal and cancerous cells. The Hooker Imaging Core, which he helped establish, provides cutting-edge imaging resources for cancer researchers across the institution.

• Human Molecular Genetics
• Dermatology
• Skin Genetics
• +4 more

Professor David P. Kelsell serves as Professor of Human Molecular Genetics and Centre Lead for the Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research at the Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London. His internationally recognized research bridges dermatology, genetics, and molecular biology with significant contributions to understanding skin disorders, hearing loss, cardiomyopathy, and oesophageal cancer. Education: BSc from University of Sheffield PhD from University of Sheffield on 'Genetics of familial breast cancer' Professor Kelsell's research program investigates molecular mechanisms underlying inherited skin diseases, particularly palmoplantar keratodermas, with cross-disciplinary implications for hearing loss, cardiac disorders, and cancer. His group employs human biopsy analysis and innovative model systems to study keratinocyte stress responses, iRhom2 signaling pathways, and Desmoplakin-related pathologies in naturally stressed tissues. Current work focuses on iRhom2 in oesophageal squamous cell cancer, Desmoplakin in cardiomyopathy, and genetic bases of palmoplantar disorders. Analysis of recent publications reveals expanding research into gastroesophageal reflux disease mechanisms, neuroimmune pathways, and population-specific dermatological studies in South Asian communities. His work consistently integrates genetic discoveries with clinical applications, particularly in rare skin disorders and their systemic manifestations. Scientific Awards: Chanel-CERIES award for skin research (2016) ESPD Schnyder Memorial Prize Lecture (2018) British Medical Association first prize (2015) Professor Kelsell has trained 24 PhD students and secured sustained funding from major organizations including the MRC, BBSRC, British Skin Foundation, Cancer Research UK, and British Heart Foundation. His collaborative approach spans clinical and basic science teams globally, with emphasis on translating genetic findings into improved diagnostics and therapies. He previously served as Deputy Director of Research at the Blizard Institute (2013-2017) and as the first non-clinical President of the European Society of Dermatological Research (2018-2019). He leads a dynamic research team at the Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration through initiatives like the Barts Centre for Squamous Research and the international pachyonychia congenita consortium. His laboratory integrates molecular genetics, cellular biology, and clinical dermatology to address complex disease mechanisms across multiple organ systems.

Noelle DwyerView profile

Associate Professor

• Neuroscience
• Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology
• +3 more

Noelle Dwyer is an Associate Professor in the Department of Cell Biology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine , focusing on neural development and genetic mechanisms underlying brain structure. BA in Biochemistry from Rice University PhD in Neuroscience from University of California, San Francisco Postdoctoral training in neurodevelopment at The Salk Institute and neurogenetics at Beth Israel Hospital, Boston Her research investigates: Neural Stem Cell Division : Regulation of abscission timing and midbody remnants in cortical development Axon Guidance : Cytoskeletal dynamics in neuronal connectivity Genetic Links to Disease : How abscission defects cause microcephaly and relate to cancer biology Publications highlight her work on kinesin proteins (KIF20B/Kif20b), abscission regulation, and p53-dependent apoptosis in neural development, spanning disciplines like neuroscience, genetics, and cell biology. Her lab employs mouse genetics, cell biology, and genomic approaches to study: Cytokinetic defects in cortical stem cells Microtubule cross-linking proteins in neuron morphogenesis Evolutionary conservation of abscission mechanisms

Elias T SpiliotisView profile

Professor

• Spatial Cell Biology
• Neuronal Morphogenesis
• Cancer Migration and Invasion
• +5 more

Elias T Spiliotis serves as Professor of Cell Biology within the Department of Cell Biology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. His research program investigates spatial organization mechanisms in neurons and epithelia with direct implications for neurological disorders and cancer metastasis. Education: BS from Boston College PhD from Johns Hopkins University Postdoctoral training at Stanford University Dr. Spiliotis's research centers on septin GTPases as master regulators of cellular asymmetry. Key initiatives include: (1) Decoding septin-mediated 'traffic codes' for motor proteins in neuronal transport; (2) Elucidating cytoskeletal crosstalk in neurite formation relevant to autism and schizophrenia; (3) Investigating septin-driven nuclear deformation mechanisms in cancer cell invasion. His laboratory employs super-resolution microscopy, gene targeting, and in vitro reconstitution to dissect these processes at molecular resolution. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2010-2024) reveals consistent focus on septin-cytoskeleton interactions across neuronal development, cancer metastasis, and fundamental membrane trafficking. Dominant trends include mechanistic studies of septin-motor protein regulation (60% of recent work) and disease modeling in neurodevelopmental disorders (25%) and breast cancer (15%). Scientific Awards: No awards specified in source materials Advising and grants information was not documented in the provided texts. The Spiliotis Lab (spiliotislab.org) maintains active research in spatial cell biology, utilizing advanced imaging and biochemical approaches to study septin functions in cellular organization and disease.

• Genetics
• Developmental Biology
• Physiology
• +6 more

Dr. Marjo Salminen is a Senior University Lecturer at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Helsinki, specializing in Genetics , Developmental Biology , and Physiology . Her research focuses on transcription factor networks (particularly GATA2 and GATA3) in neuronal and lymphatic development, with significant contributions to understanding midbrain GABAergic neuron specification, inner ear morphogenesis, and mechanosensitive lymphangiogenesis. Key collaborations with Juha Partanen (University of Helsinki) and international institutions Leading expert in mouse models for developmental gene function Research keywords include Neuroscience , Molecular Embryology , and Transcriptional Regulation , with recent work on REM-sleep regulatory neuron development (2022) and mechanotransduction in lymphatic vessel formation (2018). She has supervised numerous doctoral and Master's theses, served on thesis committees, and contributed to textbook development in Finnish. Scientific recognition includes the 2003 Scientific Book of the Year award. Current affiliations include the Veterinary Biosciences department and the Doctoral Programme in Clinical Veterinary Medicine . Her ORCID is 0000-0003-0696-6845 .

• Cell Biology
• Biophysics
• Molecular Biology
• +3 more

Andrew Kennard is a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Biology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. His work bridges experimental and computational approaches to investigate fundamental biological processes. His research focuses on: Cellular mechanics and wound healing dynamics Cytoskeletal evolution and microtubule regulation Biophysical modeling of cellular processes Electrophysiological responses to injury Developmental biology using zebrafish models Computational analysis of growth-division laws Recent publications highlight his expertise in integrating molecular biology with physical modeling, particularly in cytoskeletal dynamics and injury response mechanisms. Dr. Kennard also contributes to science education initiatives at the high school level. Contact: akennard@umass.edu

• Antibiotic Research
• Bacterial Cell Division
• Antimicrobial Resistance
• +3 more

Peter Sass is a Researcher leading the Microbial Bioactive Compounds group at the Interfaculty Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine (IMIT) within the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at the University of Tübingen. His research focuses on bacterial cell division as a novel target for antibiotic development, with particular emphasis on the molecular mechanisms of cell division inhibitors. Dr. Sass earned his diploma in 2005 and PhD in microbiology in 2009 from the University of Bonn, where he worked in the lab of Gabriele Bierbaum. He gained additional expertise through research stays at the National University of Ireland in Maynooth and Newcastle University. He completed postdoctoral training with Hans-Georg Sahl in Bonn and Heike Brötz-Oesterhelt in Düsseldorf before establishing his research group at Tübingen in 2014. His research program investigates bacterial cell division mechanisms and explores novel approaches to target this process with antimicrobial compounds. Using advanced life-cell fluorescence microscopy and in vitro protein activity assays, his team studies how antibiotics like ADEP disrupt bacterial cell division, with particular focus on the Clp protease system and divisome dynamics. His work spans fundamental bacterial physiology and translational antibiotic discovery. Dr. Sass's publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to understanding bacterial cell division as an antibiotic target. His recent work has focused on ADEP antibiotics, cell wall stress responses, and novel approaches to combat antimicrobial resistance through targeting essential cellular processes not addressed by current therapeutics. DFG TRR 261: Cellular Mechanisms of Antibiotic Action and Production German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), TTU Novel Antibiotics DFG SFB 766: The Bacterial Cell Envelope ERASMUS Fellowship by the European Union Junior scientist award from Dr. Günther and Imme Wille foundation Member of VAAM and ASM Dr. Sass leads a research team comprising postdocs, PhD students, and MSc students, and collaborates extensively with other research groups both within Tübingen and internationally. His lab utilizes advanced microscopy platforms including Nikon Eclipse Ti and Zeiss Axio Observer Z1 systems for high-resolution bacterial cell imaging. His group has made significant contributions to understanding how antibiotics like ADEP target the Clp protease system to disrupt bacterial cell division through degradation of essential proteins like FtsZ.

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Metabolic Disorders
• +3 more

Roman Chrast is a Lecturer at the School of Life Sciences, EPFL, and serves as Head of Research Core Facilities under the Deanship SV. His roles include overseeing research infrastructure and teaching life sciences engineering courses. He holds a PhD in Life Sciences from the University of Geneva and a CAS in Management of Medtech, Biotech, and Pharma Ventures from EPFL. Research interests focus on metabolic interactions in myelinating Schwann cells, genetic neuropathies (e.g., Charcot-Marie-Tooth), and mitochondrial dysfunction in neurological diseases. His work bridges basic science and translational medicine, exploring molecular mechanisms underlying axonal degeneration and glial cell biology. Publications highlight contributions to understanding Schwann cell metabolism, mitochondrial dynamics, and gene therapy approaches for neuropathies. His administrative roles involve coordinating core facilities to support interdisciplinary research in life sciences.

Betsy McIntoshView profile

Academic

• Education Research
• STEM Education
• Teaching Methodologies
• +3 more

Betsy McIntosh is an Assistant Teaching Professor and Associate Director of Learning Assistant (LA) Development at the University of Colorado Boulder's School of Education. She oversees professional development for LAs across disciplines, connecting communities within the LA Program to enhance teaching and learning experiences. Her work bridges STEM education, genetics education research, and interdisciplinary pedagogy. Education: Holds a doctorate in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Pennsylvania, with prior degrees in biochemistry, chemistry, and biophysics. Her career transition into education research was inspired by informal science education work with organizations like the Franklin Institute. Research Interests: Focuses on improving educational access/outcomes, evidence-based teaching methods, and interdisciplinary learning strategies. She designs programs to support undergraduate STEM education and mentors faculty in optimizing LA program integration. LA Program Contributions: Since 2018, coordinates pedagogy resources for LAs in STEM, Social Sciences, and Humanities fields. Develops events like LA orientations and poster sessions, supports mentorship programs, and innovates in remote education delivery. Collaborates nationally/internationally through the Learning Assistant Alliance.

Penelope HiggsView profile

Associate Professor

• Microbiology
• Developmental Biology
• Cellular Morphogenesis
• +5 more

Penelope Higgs is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Wayne State University, within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Her research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms governing developmental processes in the bacterium Myxococcus xanthus, including cell fate segregation, spore morphogenesis, and signal transduction networks. She holds a Ph.D. (2001) and B.Sc. (1994) in Biological Sciences from Washington State University. Research Interests: Dr. Higgs investigates how Myxococcus xanthus coordinates multicellular behaviors during development, including the regulatory pathways that control cell fate decisions, spore formation, and signaling integration. Her work combines genetic, biochemical, and transcriptomic approaches to dissect complex developmental processes. Funding: Ongoing support includes an NSF CAREER grant (2017–2025) and prior DFG funding (2012–2016) for studies on bacterial sporulation. Mentoring: The Higgs lab emphasizes training in experimental rigor, communication, and leadership. Students present at conferences like the International Conference on Myxobacteria and participate in outreach activities. Mentees are encouraged to develop independent research projects and contribute to departmental committees. Labs & Courses: Courses include BIO3250 (Molecular Mechanisms of Microbiology) and BIO4370 (Microbial Communities). The lab actively explores spore morphogenesis, signaling networks, and developmental robustness in Myxococcus xanthus.