Holger Knaut is an Associate Professor in the Department of Cell Biology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine . His research focuses on understanding the molecular and mechanical mechanisms underlying collective cell migration, tissue morphogenesis, and cytoskeletal dynamics using zebrafish models and quantitative imaging techniques. Key research areas: Collective cell migration, RhoA signaling, focal adhesions, actin polymerization Methodologies: Genetics, live-cell imaging, biomechanical analysis Notable findings: Discovery of rear traction forces in tissue migration, integration of adhesion codes in pattern formation His publications in top journals like Nature Cell Biology and Science demonstrate his expertise in developmental biophysics and cell signaling regulation. Contact: Holger.Knaut@nyulangone.org
Dr. Steven Jacobsen is a Professor in the Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology Department at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he leads the Jacobsen Lab. His work focuses on epigenetic inheritance and gene regulation in Arabidopsis thaliana and mammalian stem cells, utilizing genetic screens, genomics, epigenomics, and biochemical approaches. The lab also pioneers CRISPR-mediated genome editing techniques. University: University of California, Los Angeles Department: Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology Research Interests: Jacobsen's research spans multiple interconnected domains in epigenetics, including DNA methylation patterning, histone modification interplay, and transposable element silencing. His team investigates how chromatin structure influences gene expression and epigenetic inheritance, with applications from plant development to human health. Key areas include: CRISPR-based epigenetic modifications RNA-directed DNA methylation (RdDM) mechanisms Chromatin compaction via MORC proteins Histone variant functions in methylation Transposon control in plant genomes Comparative epigenomics across species Advising Legacy: Over two decades, Dr. Jacobsen has mentored 21 former lab members who now hold academic and industry positions globally, including professors at Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Georgia, and Southern University of Science & Technology. His lab's publications reveal a consistent focus on DNA methylation dynamics, chromatin remodeling, and small RNA pathways, with recent work emphasizing CRISPR innovations and structural insights into epigenetic regulators.
Fabiola Ceroni is a Senior Research Fellow at Oxford Brookes University's School of Biological and Medical Sciences, specializing in the Molecular Genetics of Human Eye Development . Her research focuses on identifying novel genes and molecular mechanisms underlying developmental eye disorders through advanced genomic techniques. Institution: Oxford Brookes University School: School of Biological and Medical Sciences Role: Senior Research Fellow in Professor Ragge's team Her work primarily addresses developmental eye disorders such as anophthalmia, microphthalmia, and coloboma, utilizing whole genome/exome sequencing and copy number variant analysis . Recent publications highlight her contributions to understanding genetic regulation in eye development and neurodevelopmental disorders. Key trends in her publications include: Genotype-phenotype correlations in developmental eye disorders Role of structural variants and non-coding sequences in congenital anomalies Genetic mechanisms in autism spectrum disorder and neurodevelopmental syndromes CRISPR/Cas9 applications for functional validation She collaborates with multidisciplinary teams and contributes to open-access research, with publications available via Oxford Brookes' Research Repository (RADAR).
Lars Aagaard is an Associate Professor at the Department of Biomedicine - Research and Education, Aarhus University, Denmark. He is based at the Bartholin Building in Aarhus C and is actively engaged in research and teaching in the fields of gene therapy, RNA interference, and genome editing. His work focuses on developing viral vectors, particularly AAV and lentiviral vectors, for ocular gene therapy targeting retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. His research interests include the development of Dicer-independent RNAi systems, combinatorial gene therapy using microRNA and CRISPR/Cas9, and the delivery of RNA- and protein-based therapeutics. He also teaches Genetics and Personalized Medicine and supervises postdoctoral researchers, PhD, master's, and undergraduate students. The recent publications (2022–2024) reflect a strong trend in RNAi therapeutics, viral vector engineering, and translational applications in ocular and systemic diseases. Themes include gene silencing, immune modulation, and regenerative approaches using engineered cells. Aagaard actively contributes to the scientific community as a reviewer for journals such as Nature and Molecular Therapy . He has participated in key international conferences including ARVO, ASGCT, and ESGCT, demonstrating ongoing engagement with the global gene therapy community. Supervision of postdocs, PhD, master’s, and undergraduate students Active participation in international conferences and workshops Collaborative research across institutions, including Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo He is involved in both basic and translational research, with potential for clinical applications in gene and cell therapy.
Roberto Andorno is an Associate Professor ('Privatdozent') of biomedical law and bioethics at the Faculty of Law, University of Zurich, and a Research Associate and PhD Program Coordinator at the Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine. He holds doctoral degrees in law from the University of Buenos Aires (1991) and Paris-Est Créteil (1994), and has held visiting and fellowship positions at Laval University, University of Göttingen, and University of Tübingen. He is actively involved in international bioethics through UNESCO, including serving on the International Bioethics Committee (1998–2005) and the Expert Group on the Ethics of Neurotechnology (2024). Doctor of Law, University of Buenos Aires (1991) Doctor of Law, Paris-Est Créteil University (1994) Privatdozent, University of Zurich PhD Program Coordinator, Institute of Biomedical Ethics, University of Zurich His research focuses on the intersection of law, human rights, and bioethics, with key interests in neuroethics, human germline editing, scientific integrity, and end-of-life care. He has extensively published on mental privacy, cognitive liberty, and the ethical implications of neurotechnologies. His work emphasizes human dignity as a foundational principle in bioethics and law. His recent publications (2021–2023) reveal a strong trend toward neuroethics and neurorights, with significant contributions to debates on mind-reading technologies, neurosurveillance in the workplace, and the need for new human rights in the age of neuroscience. He also continues to publish on assisted suicide, palliative sedation, and global bioethics post-pandemic, reflecting a broad and evolving research agenda. Member, UNESCO International Bioethics Committee (1998–2005) President, European Society for Philosophy of Medicine and Healthcare (2014–2016) Researcher, EU Project 'INTEGRITY' on Scientific Integrity (2019–2021) Member, UNESCO Expert Group on the Ethics of Neurotechnology (2024) Roberto Andorno has not publicly listed specific advisees, but as Coordinator of the PhD Program in Biomedical Ethics and Law, he plays a central role in mentoring doctoral candidates. He has participated in major research projects funded by the EU and UNESCO, indicating substantial grant involvement. He leads discussions on bioethics education and integrity training, advocating for stronger integration of research ethics in medical curricula. He is affiliated with the Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine at the University of Zurich, a leading center for bioethics research in Europe. His work often involves collaboration with international scholars and institutions, contributing to global policy development in bioethics and human rights.
Dr. Henry H.Q. Heng is a tenured Professor of Molecular Medicine and Genetics and Pathology at Wayne State University , affiliated with the Karmanos Cancer Institute . His research spans genomics, evolutionary biology, and cancer systems theory. Education: PhD from University of Toronto (1994) Key research areas: Genomics, Evolutionary Biology, Cancer Research, Precision Medicine Dr. Heng's groundbreaking Genome Architecture Theory challenges traditional neo-Darwinism by emphasizing genomic topology and system inheritance over gene-level mechanisms. His team introduced the two-phased cancer evolution model (punctuated macroevolution followed by microevolution), explaining rapid cancer adaptation through genome chaos and non-clonal chromosome aberrations. Recent publications focus on karyotype coding , therapy-induced genome chaos, and the limitations of precision medicine approaches that ignore genomic heterogeneity. His work reveals how stress-induced genomic instability drives cancer evolution and drug resistance. 2020 PROSE Award Finalist for 'Genome Chaos: Rethinking Genetics, Evolution, and Molecular Medicine' Dr. Heng's lab develops innovative genomic techniques like high-resolution Fiber-FISH and investigates Gulf War Illness through genomic instability lens. He actively debates foundational issues in cancer research through books like 'Debating Cancer: The Paradox in Cancer Research' (2015) and 'Genome Chaos' (2019).
Loic Binan is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Human Genetics at McGill University, with additional affiliations as an Associate Member in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Integrated Program in Neuroscience. His research focuses on developing cutting-edge technologies to investigate how gene networks control the self-organization of cells into complex 3D tissues during development and in disease conditions. Dr. Binan's research interests span multiple interdisciplinary fields, with particular emphasis on cancer metastasis , where he investigates the genetic mechanisms allowing cells to reversibly transition between epithelial and mesenchymal phenotypes. His work also explores isoforms and non-coding regions , developing technologies to understand alternative splicing in neurodegenerative diseases, and examining how past cell-cell interactions shape present transcriptional activity during development. His laboratory employs a diverse array of techniques including CRISPR gene editing, spatial transcriptomics, single-cell RNA sequencing, advanced microscopy, and computational methods for image analysis. The recent publications reveal a strong trend toward integrating high-throughput genetic screening with spatial transcriptomics to map gene regulatory networks across both cancer biology and neuroscience contexts. Dr. Binan leads the Binan Lab at the Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, where his team develops precision gene editing tools such as Cas9 and Cas12 for high-throughput screens, creates novel imaging tools to collect spatial context data, and builds computational tools to analyze these complex new data types. His research primarily focuses on cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, with particular attention to brain development and tumor microenvironments.
Pilar Blancafort is an Associate Professor at The University of Western Australia (UWA), holding positions in the School of Human Sciences and UWA Medical School. She is affiliated with the UWA Centre for Medical Research and collaborates with the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. Her research focuses on epigenetic manipulation in cancer models, particularly breast and ovarian cancers, leveraging CRISPR/Cas9 and genome engineering technologies to develop precision medicine tools. She has co-led projects such as the Lionheart FX Automated High-Content Microscope initiative and actively investigates therapeutic reprogramming of cellular signaling pathways to improve cancer treatment outcomes. Blancafort’s research expertise includes genome engineering, cancer epigenetics, and women’s cancers. She collaborates internationally and has contributed to over 70 publications, 14 datasets, and 43 grants. Her work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing global health and innovation in medical research. Key areas of exploration involve reactivating tumor suppressors, silencing oncogenic drivers, and enhancing immune responses through CRISPR-based systems. Her studies on the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway and novel oncogenes further underscore her commitment to advancing targeted therapies. Blancafort has supervised 11 students and leads multiple grants, including projects on metastatic breast cancer therapies and ovarian cancer reprogramming. Her lab at the UWA Centre for Medical Research explores translational strategies for epigenome editing in cancer, with a focus on clinical applicability. Recent work highlights lipid nanoparticle delivery systems for CRISPR/dCas9 and synthetic epigenetic approaches to reverse mesenchymal-epithelial transitions in breast cancer.
CHEN Wei is a Chair Professor at the Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen, China. He holds a Ph.D. from the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics (2006) and previously served as a Full Professor (W3) at the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin (2015-2016). Prior to joining SUSTech, he led research groups at prestigious German institutions, contributing to large-scale genome centers and the Berlin Institute of Health. Education : Ph.D. (2006, Max Planck Institute), M.S. (2002, Sichuan University), B.S. (1993, Xiamen University) His research focuses on systems biology and genomics, particularly post-transcriptional gene regulation mechanisms and their roles in human diseases. His lab integrates next-generation sequencing technologies with computational approaches to study non-coding RNA functions, alternative splicing, and chromatin dynamics. Key projects include CRISPR-based functional studies, 3D genome analysis, and RNA editing in neurological and metabolic disorders. Recent publications highlight his work in Drosophila developmental genomics, chloroplast translation control, and cancer biology. The 2025 study on spatiotemporal multi-omics in Drosophila and 2024 articles on MatK's role in tRNA splicing and CRISPR-activated transcriptional regulation exemplify his interdisciplinary approach. Earlier works (2023-2022) address immune cell trafficking, alternative polyadenylation, and chromatin remodeling in cancer metastasis. At SUSTech, he leads a team with 4 research assistant professors, 2 postdoctoral fellows, 3 research assistants, and 7 graduate students. His lab has secured significant funding from EU and German agencies (€7M+), though specific awards are not detailed in the provided text. Teaching responsibilities include General Biology and Principles of Cell Biology.
Joseph Darowski is an Assistant Professor in the Department of English at Brigham Young University, affiliated with the College of Humanities. His academic work bridges literary analysis and cultural studies, with a focus on American popular media. Research Interests: Dr. Darowski specializes in American popular culture, particularly comic books, television, and film. His scholarship explores how media reflects and shapes societal issues such as race, gender, identity, and class. He has made significant contributions to the study of superhero narratives, situating them within broader historical and cultural contexts. Publication Trends: His body of work reveals a sustained engagement with cultural history through long-running television series and superhero comics. He examines how shows like Cheers , Frasier , and Survivor , as well as franchises like X-Men and Superman , serve as mirrors to American values across decades. His edited essay collections, particularly the Ages of Superheroes series, demonstrate interdisciplinary rigor and thematic breadth. Teaching and Service: He teaches courses in English, likely covering topics in media, literature, and cultural studies. While no formal advising or grant information is provided, his extensive publication record suggests active scholarly engagement.
Jef D. Boeke is the Sol and Judith Bergstein Director of the Institute of Systems Genetics and a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. He holds a PhD from Rockefeller University and has pioneered research in synthetic biology, retrotransposition mechanisms, and yeast genetics. His work includes leading the international Sc2.0 project to synthesize the first eukaryotic genome and the 'Dark Matter Project' exploring non-coding DNA functions. Research interests focus on genome engineering, synthetic genomics, epigenetics, and applications to cancer biology. His lab develops CRISPR tools and synthetic regulatory systems, with notable contributions to understanding LINE-1 retrotransposons and chromatin structure. Over 489 publications highlight his work in Nature Communications, Molecular Cell, and Science. Awards: While specific prizes aren't listed, his leadership in groundbreaking projects like Sc2.0 and contributions to synthetic biology underscore his influential career. Grants and funding details are implied through active research programs. Advising: Supervises a multidisciplinary team of postdocs and graduate students working on projects ranging from antibiotic engineering to de-extinction approaches. Lab collaborations include international partnerships and industry-driven biotech applications. Labs/Teams: Directs the Boeke Lab, a hub for synthetic genome engineering and systems genetics. The lab’s interdisciplinary team bridges molecular biology, computational biology, and engineering to solve complex biological problems.
Prof. Jens Boch is a Professor at Leibniz University Hannover's Institute of Plant Genetics, specializing in plant biotechnology and genome editing. He leads the Boch group, focusing on developing crops with improved traits using TALEN and CRISPR tools. His research investigates plant pathogens like Xanthomonas , particularly their TALE effectors that manipulate host genes. Key roles include Chair of the Biology Examination Board and membership in external committees such as the Konferenz Biologischer Fachbereiche (KBF). Education & Affiliations: No explicit education details provided; affiliated with Leibniz University Hannover's Faculty of Natural Sciences. Research Interests: Genome editing applications in agriculture, bacterial pathogen strategies (e.g., Xanthomonas TALE effectors), plant defense mechanisms, and crop improvement. Recent work includes base editor developments for mitochondrial disease modeling (2025), allergen reduction in mustard (2022), and TALE-based tools for gene activation (2022). His group collaborates on projects like removing allergens and enhancing cattle heat resistance via embryo editing. Media contributions include podcasts and discussions on genome editing ethics and applications.
Prof. Dr. Gil Westmeyer is a Professor of Neurobiological Engineering at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), holding joint appointments at the TUM School of Natural Sciences and TUM School of Medicine and Health. He serves as Director of the Institute for Synthetic Biomedicine at Helmholtz-Zentrum München and leads the Chair of Neurobiological Engineering at TUM. His research program bridges molecular engineering, neuroimaging, and synthetic biology to develop next-generation tools for understanding and manipulating cellular networks. Westmeyer's educational background includes medical and philosophical studies in Munich, doctoral work on the molecular basis of Alzheimer's disease under Professor Christian Haass, clinical training at Harvard Medical School, and postdoctoral research with Professor Alan Jasanoff at MIT. His laboratory focuses on creating genetically encoded molecular sensors and actuators that enable non-invasive imaging and remote control of cellular processes across multiple scales. His research spans three primary domains: molecular sensors for multimodal imaging (from electron microscopy to whole-organism optoacoustics), molecular actuators for spatiotemporal control of cellular processes, and neurobehavioral imaging in freely behaving model organisms. The lab's work integrates synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and advanced imaging techniques to create tools that map dynamic signaling processes and manipulate cellular functions with unprecedented precision. Westmeyer's publication record demonstrates consistent innovation in molecular engineering, with recent work focusing on genetically encoded barcodes for electron microscopy, intron-encoded reporting systems, multiplexed optoacoustic imaging, and magnetically responsive cellular compartments. His publications in high-impact journals like Nature Methods, Cell, and Nature Biotechnology reflect the significance of his contributions to molecular imaging and engineering. ERC Proof of Concept 'inteRNAlizer' (2023) ERC Consolidator Grant 'EMcapsulins' (2019) ERC Starting Grant 'MagnetoGenetics' (2013) Helmholtz Young Investigator's Group (2011) Westmeyer actively mentors students and researchers through multiple teaching positions at TUM, including courses in biological chemistry, genetic machine development (iGEM), mammalian cell technology, and neuro-recording methods. His laboratory develops technologies with clear translational potential for future neurotherapies and regenerative medicine applications, particularly through the creation of imaging-controlled cellular interventions. The lab maintains strong collaborations across disciplines and institutions, with research that contributes to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and wellbeing.
Andrew Wilkie is the Nuffield Professor of Pathology at the University of Oxford and an Honorary Consultant in Clinical Genetics. He is based at the MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine and leads the Wilkie Group focused on clinical genetics and craniofacial malformations. His work bridges fundamental research with clinical applications, particularly in the field of craniosynostosis and related conditions. He serves as Co-Theme Leader for Genomic Medicine at the NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre and is an Associate Editor for PLoS Genetics. Wilkie's primary research interest lies in craniofacial malformations, especially craniosynostosis (premature fusion of cranial sutures). His groundbreaking 1995 discovery identified specific FGFR2 mutations as the cause of Apert syndrome, which led to two major research themes: discovering other genetic causes of craniosynostosis and investigating why certain mutations occur with unexpectedly high frequency. This work evolved into the recognition of 'selfish spermatogonial selection,' a novel process in testes that links germline and somatic mutation origins. Current research leverages next-generation sequencing to identify new genetic causes of craniosynostosis and explores the mechanisms by which stem cell populations maintain cranial sutures. His publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to understanding craniosynostosis genetics, with recent work focusing on novel gene discoveries (such as MEGF8, ERF, TCF12, ZIC1, CDC45, and SMO), regulatory element mapping, and the application of whole genome sequencing in clinical diagnostics. The research spans molecular genetics, developmental biology, and clinical applications, with increasing emphasis on understanding the complex pathways underlying craniofacial development and malformation. Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences (FMedSci) Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) Wilkie leads a research team including Associate Professor Stephen Twigg, DPhil candidates, and postdoctoral researchers. His lab collaborates extensively with clinical units across the UK and internationally, including craniofacial teams at Oxford University Hospitals, Great Ormond Street Hospital, and institutions in the Netherlands and USA. Funding comes from major sources including the Wellcome Trust, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, NIH, and Action Medical Research. His work has translated numerous genetic discoveries into NHS diagnostic testing, directly impacting patient care through improved genetic diagnoses. The Wilkie Lab maintains strong connections with clinical genetics services and focuses on both fundamental mechanisms of cranial suture development and direct clinical applications. The team uses mouse models (including CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing), single-cell analysis, and human genomic data to understand suture biology. They're part of the 100,000 Genomes Project and work closely with the NIHR Oxford BRC Genomic Medicine theme to implement genomic technologies in healthcare.
Guizhi Zhu (Julian) is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Michigan — Ann Arbor . He is also a Center Member at the Rogel Cancer Center and Biointerfaces Institute . His research focuses on RNA-based therapeutics and vaccines at the intersection of immunology, nucleic acid engineering, and functional biomaterials. Dr. Zhu earned a B.S. from Nankai University (China), a Ph.D. from the University of Florida (USA), and completed postdoctoral training at the National Institutes of Health . His work has been continuously supported by federal grants from NIH , DoD , and ACS , including a $2.3M NIH/NCI R01 grant (2022-2027) and a DoD Breast Cancer Research Breakthrough Award (2022-2025). Developing circRNA and mRNA vaccines for cancer and infectious diseases Designing nucleic acid immunotherapeutics (circRNA, gene-editing gRNA, siRNA) Engineering cGAS-STING-targeted immunomodulators for cancer and autoimmune diseases Creating biomaterials delivery systems : lipid nanoparticles, polymeric microneedles, hydrogels His 15 most recent publications (2020-2025) demonstrate expertise in circular RNA vaccines , nucleic acid delivery , and combination immunotherapy . His 2022 review in Journal of Controlled Release has been cited 231 times, highlighting his leadership in RNA therapeutics. 2022 : Mary Ann Liebert Young Investigator Award, AAPS Emerging Leader Award 2021 : NIH MIRA R35 grant ($1.9M), METAvivor Early Career Award 2019 : KL2 Scholar (NCATS, NIH) The Zhu Research Group includes 15+ members working on projects like tumor therapeutic mRNA vaccines and RNA editing. They currently accept PhD students, postdocs, and visiting scholars.
