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Angelike StathopoulosView profile

Professor

• Developmental Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• +3 more

Angelike Stathopoulos is a Professor of Biology and Director of the Center for Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). She holds a B.A. from the University of California (1992) and a Ph.D. from Stanford University (1998). Her research focuses on cis-regulatory mechanisms driving embryonic patterning and tissue development in Drosophila , including how transcription factors interact at cis-regulatory modules and coordinate temporal actions of non-contiguous DNA elements. Her lab also investigates how embryonic cell patterning influences cell behaviors during migration and differentiation. Key research areas include enhancer action dynamics, FGF signaling in cell migration, and the interplay between gene regulation and morphogenesis. Her work combines genetics, live imaging, and quantitative approaches to dissect developmental processes. Notable contributions include studies on Dorsal nuclear gradient dynamics, collective cell migration mechanisms, and the role of cis-regulatory modules in spatiotemporal gene expression. Stathopoulos has directed the Stathopoulos Lab at Caltech since 2005, leading a team of researchers exploring developmental biology’s molecular underpinnings. Her findings have advanced understanding of embryo patterning, morphogen gradients, and gene regulatory networks. Grants and collaborations support her lab’s investigations into developmental precision and plasticity. Her lab’s outreach and teaching activities emphasize bridging fundamental research with educational initiatives. The lab website highlights ongoing projects in embryonic gene expression, enhancer coordination, FGF signaling, and collective cell migration.

Kaixiang CaoView profile

Assistant Professor

• Epigenetics
• Stem Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology
• +3 more

Kaixiang Cao is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. He is also a member of the Cancer Genomics and Epigenomics Program at the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center. Research Interests: Dr. Cao's lab investigates epigenetic mechanisms—including histone modifications, DNA methylation, and nucleosome positioning—in relation to stem cell fate determination, enhancer function, and disease pathogenesis. His work focuses on lysine methyltransferases/demethylases (KMTs/KDMs), COMPASS family proteins, and chromatin architecture in developmental and cancer contexts. Publication Trends: Recent studies (2020-2025) emphasize synergistic epigenetic pathways (e.g., H3K79/H3K36 methylation), enhancer regulation, and non-canonical roles of chromatin modifiers like LSD1 and DOT1L. Earlier work (2012-2014) established foundational insights into linker histone variants, Hox gene regulation, and transcriptional control in stem cells. Mentoring & Collaboration: The lab is dedicated to training biomedical scientists and translating epigenetic discoveries into therapeutic strategies for developmental syndromes and cancer.

Manfred GahrView profile

Professor

• Behavioral Neuroscience
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Cellular Neuroscience
• +6 more

Manfred Gahr is a Professor and Director at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, leading the Department of Behavioural Neurobiology. His research focuses on the neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying sexual differentiation of neural circuits and vocal behavior in birds, particularly songbirds and hummingbirds. Primary Research: Behavioral & Cognitive Neuroscience, Cellular & Systems Neuroscience Methods: Interdisciplinary approach combining bioacoustics, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, endocrinology, transcriptomics, and genomics Key Topics: Sexual dimorphism, hormone-sensitive song systems, vocal learning, and genomic underpinnings of neural development His team investigates how developmental programs and hormonal fluctuations lead to sex-specific neural differentiation and behavioral outcomes, with implications for understanding sexual selection and neural plasticity. Recent Publications: Explore testosterone-driven gene networks, vocal communication in zebra finches, and neural correlates of cooperative duetting Collaborators & Students: Dr. Alena Lemazina, Dr. Shouwen Ma Contact: manfred.gahr@bi.mpg.de | Lab Website

• Neuroscience
• Molecular Genetics
• Retrotransposons
• +4 more

Dr. Gabriela Bodea serves as an Honorary Senior Fellow at the Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, maintaining active research contributions across neuroscience and social sciences. Her interdisciplinary work bridges molecular mechanisms of brain development with socio-economic analysis of cultural and migration dynamics. Her research portfolio emphasizes: Neuroscience: LINE-1 retrotransposon regulation in neural development, dopaminergic system formation, and neuropathological contexts including tauopathy. Molecular Genetics: Somatic mosaicism, retrotransposition dynamics in embryonic and adult brains using advanced sequencing. Social Sciences: Multicultural economics, temporal asymmetry in social stratification, and historical border influences on Romanian student migration. Publication analysis reveals a dual trajectory: neuroscience work focuses on genomic instability in brain development using primate/mouse models, while social science research examines socio-economic heterogeneity through Romanian case studies. This unique interdisciplinary synthesis connects molecular neurogenomics with cultural-economic theory. Dr. Bodea maintains extensive collaborations with Geoffrey J. Faulkner's research group at QBI for neuroscience projects and with Romanian social science teams for migration studies, evidenced by co-authorship in high-impact journals including Nature Neuroscience and Cell Reports.

Rowena LaveryView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Reproductive Biology
• Molecular Genetics
• Sex Determination
• +9 more

Rowena Lavery is a Senior Lecturer in Biotechnology at Flinders University, College of Medicine and Public Health. She holds a PhD from the University of Galway and has extensive international research experience in reproductive biology and molecular genetics across institutions in Ireland, Italy, France, and Australia. She transitioned into education in 2016, teaching across higher and vocational education programs at Holmesglen, RMIT, and Flinders University. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), University of Galway Bachelor of Science (Hons) 1st Class, University of Galway National Diploma in Fine Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40110) Her research focuses on reproductive biology , particularly the molecular mechanisms of SOX9 and RSPO1 in sex determination and gonadal development. She pioneered work showing that female sex differentiation is actively induced by RSPO1 , overturning the default pathway dogma. Her later work revealed SOX9 ’s role in RNA splicing, expanding its known functions beyond transcription. She combines this deep scientific background with innovative teaching approaches, emphasizing work-integrated learning (WIL), gamification, and cloud-based platforms like Canvas with H5P tools to create dynamic, student-centered experiences. The analysis of her publications reveals a consistent trajectory in developmental genetics and reproductive biology , with recent contributions shifting toward educational research and pedagogical innovation. Her work spans molecular diagnostics, stem cell research, and clinical applications, with a strong emphasis on both basic science and translational outcomes. Her scientific and teaching excellence has been recognized through numerous awards, including: RMIT SEH Top Course Award (multiple years, across Biochemistry, Histology, and Molecular Biology) Harold–Mitchell Postdoctoral Travel Grant Equity Trustees Equipment Grant Faculty of 1000 Recommendations for high-impact research National University of Ireland PhD Scholarship Rowena Lavery has supervised and mentored numerous students across multiple programs, though specific names are not listed. She has secured competitive grants for laboratory equipment and research, demonstrating strong project leadership. Her professional engagement includes extensive participation in workshops and industry collaborations with Helena Laboratories, Thermo Scientific, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Monash Medical Centre, ensuring her teaching remains aligned with real-world applications. She is a member of the Australian and American Societies for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals in health and education.

Javier ApfeldView profile

Assistant Professor

• Aging Research
• Stress Resilience
• Molecular Genetics
• +3 more

Roles & Affiliations: Javier Apfeld is an Affiliated Faculty member in Bioengineering and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Northeastern University. His lab focuses on understanding how the brain regulates aging and stress resilience in C. elegans , leveraging interdisciplinary approaches combining molecular genetics, microscopy, and engineering. Education: PhD in Biochemistry from University of California, San Francisco (1999); BSc in Biology from MIT (1994). Research: Key areas include protein oxidation dynamics, microbiome interactions, and lifespan regulation. Technologies used include biophysically-calibrated microscopy and automated lifespan analysis systems. Current projects explore intercellular protein oxidation regulation and microbiome-modulated resilience. Publications: Over 20 peer-reviewed articles, including work on sensory decision-making in C. elegans and the SensorOverlord biosensor analysis tool. Recent high-impact studies focus on temperature-dependent stress defenses and lifespan scaling mechanisms. Awards: NSF CAREER Award (2020), HHMI Predoctoral Fellowship (2015). Lab develops interdisciplinary tools for quantitative biology and trains students across biology, engineering, and data science. Lab Activities: Recruiting undergrads, grad students, and postdocs. Current lab members include over 30 trainees. Alumni have transitioned to roles in academia, biotech, and medicine.

Gregor AndelfingerView profile

Professor

• Genetics of Congenital Heart Diseases
• Developmental Biology of the Cardiovascular System
• Cardiovascular Genetics

Gregor Andelfinger is an Accredited Professor at the Department of Cardiovascular Genetics at CHU Ste-Justine Research Center in Montréal, Québec. He is affiliated with the Centre de recherche at CHU Ste-Justine, located at 3175, ch. de la Côte-Ste-Catherine, bureau 5734. His contact information includes a telephone number (514 345-4931, ext. 3244) and email: gregor.andelfinger.med@ssss.gouv.qc.ca. His research interests are centered on the genetic basis of congenital heart diseases and the developmental biology of the cardiovascular system. Key areas include: Genetics of congenital heart defects (e.g., Andersen syndrome, bicuspid aortic valve) Cardiovascular developmental pathways using Xenopus and canine models Molecular mechanisms involving transcription factors like KLF13 Genetic linkage analysis for cardiovascular malformations Notable research contributions include identifying KCNJ2 gene mutations linked to Andersen syndrome, mapping canine tricuspid valve malformations to chromosome 9, and investigating the role of KLF13 in heart development. His work also explores nitrosative stress effects on vascular pathology and familial cardiac disorders. No scientific awards or specific grants are listed here. His research is conducted at CHU Ste-Justine’s Centre de recherche, with a focus on collaborative studies in cardiovascular genetics and developmental biology. No advisees or students are explicitly mentioned in the provided information.

Aurora Manuela Ruiz Herrera MorenoView profile

Associate Professor

• Genome Organization
• Evolutionary Genomics
• Germ Cell Biology
• +4 more

Aurora Manuela Ruiz Herrera Moreno is an Associate Professor in the Department of Cellular Biology, Physiology and Immunology at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), affiliated with the Institute of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (IBB Vicent Villar Palasi). She leads the Genome Integrity and Reproductive Biology research group and serves as Deputy Coordinator of the Biology Degree in the School of Biosciences. Education: Ph.D. in Biologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (2003) Master's in Biologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (1998) Research Interests: Her work focuses on structural, functional, and evolutionary aspects of genome organization, particularly in germ cells. Key areas include genome rearrangements, epigenetic regulation, and mechanisms underlying genetic transmission across generations. She has contributed to high-impact journals like Nature , Cell , and PNAS . Grants & Projects: Principal Investigator or collaborator in >30 national/international projects, including: "The Epigenetics of Sex in the Dragon" (2022–2025) "EXPLORANDO LA DINAMICA DE LA ARQUITECTURA GENOMICA" (2021–2026) Teaching & Service: Over 25 years of teaching in pre- and postgraduate courses (Biology, Genetics, Cell Biology). Institutional roles include Coordinator of UAB postgraduate courses and evaluation committee member for agencies in Spain, USA, UK, and others.

• Male Infertility
• Genetic Biomarkers
• Chromosomal Territoriality
• +4 more

Juan Blanco Rodriguez is an Associate Lecturer in the Department of Cellular Biology, Physiology, and Immunology at the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB). He leads the Genetics and Male Fertility Group, focusing on male infertility through genetic, chromosomal, and environmental research. His work includes identifying genetic biomarkers, studying chromosomal territoriality in germ cells, and investigating environmental pollutants' impact on fertility. He teaches Reproductive Genetics and coordinates a Master’s program in Biology of Reproduction and Assisted Reproductive Techniques. Education: Ph.D. in Cell Biology (UAB, 2001), Degree in Biology (UAB, 1994) Research Output: 106 publications, 2891 citations, h-index 34 Research interests span three areas: genetic biomarkers for infertility, chromosomal dynamics in spermatogenesis, and environmental factors affecting fertility. Notable projects include studies on nanoplastics, nut consumption effects on semen quality, and collaborations with Barcelona clinics like Dexeus Mujer. He leads grants funded by the Ministry of Health and UAB, and serves on editorial boards and professional associations such as the European Cytogeneticists Association (ECA).

Eden AmirView profile

Professor

• Epigenetics
• Cancer Genetics
• Chromatin Structure
• +3 more

Dr. Eden Amir is a Professor at the Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His research focuses on epigenetic regulation in cancer, particularly DNA methylation and chromatin dynamics. He leads a lab studying epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes and its implications for cancer therapy. Amir collaborates with Prof. Yuval Dor on cell proliferation markers and develops transgenic mouse models for cancer research. He teaches advanced cell biology and chromatin structure courses. His work bridges epigenetics, chromatin biology, and cancer mechanisms, with contributions to understanding genomic instability in tumors. Key research areas include: epigenetic silencing mechanisms, cancer epigenetics, chromatin remodeling in malignant rhabdoid tumors, and direct reprogramming of epigenetic defects. His lab employs mouse models, high-throughput genomic techniques, and computational analysis. Major findings include the role of macroH2A in gene silencing and the impact of DNA hypomethylation on tumor development. Amir’s contributions to the field are evident in over 50 peer-reviewed publications, including studies in Nature and Science . He is affiliated with the Institute of Life Sciences and collaborates internationally. His research also explores therapeutic strategies targeting aberrant epigenetic states in cancer cells.

Yonatan TzurView profile

Researcher

• Germ Cell Development
• Reproductive Biology
• Genetics
• +3 more

Dr. Yonatan Tzur is a Principal Investigator at the Department of Genetics , Institute of Life Sciences at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem . His research focuses on understanding the biology of fertility, particularly the mechanisms underlying oocyte development and aging. Using Caenorhabditis elegans and human oocytes, his lab employs techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9, single-cell RNA-Seq, and high-resolution microscopy to study signal transduction pathways, chromosome silencing, and non-coding RNA roles in germline processes. Key Research Themes Aging-related meiotic errors in oocytes MAP Kinase signaling in oocyte quality CRISPR innovations for chromosome engineering Long non-coding RNA functions in germline development His lab has pioneered studies on ogr-2 gene regulation and X chromosome silencing mechanisms. Recent work identified MAPK signaling as a critical determinant of oocyte aging, with potential therapeutic implications. Dr. Tzur has been awarded SMS grants (2021, 2024) for collaborative research on fertility biomarkers and oncogenic pathways.

George VassiliouView profile

Professor

• Clonal haematopoiesis
• Myeloid malignant transformation
• Acute myeloid leukaemia
• +5 more

Professor George Vassiliou is Professor of Haematological Medicine at the University of Cambridge, a Cancer Research UK Senior Fellow, and Consultant Haematologist at Cambridge University Hospitals. He leads the Vassiliou Group within the Department of Haematology, with laboratories embedded in both the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute and the Wellcome Sanger Institute. Education & Training MB BS – Medicine, Royal London Hospital PhD – University of Cambridge, 2005 Post-doctoral & clinical training – London and Cambridge teaching hospitals, Wellcome Sanger Institute Research Themes Professor Vassiliou’s work is centred on understanding how normal haematopoietic stem cells transform into malignant states and how these processes can be therapeutically intercepted. His group combines unbiased in vivo genetic screens, bespoke mouse modelling, and large-scale human cohort analyses to: Identify genetic vulnerabilities in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and related myeloid cancers. Track the evolution of clonal haematopoiesis in healthy ageing populations. Develop early detection strategies and preventive interventions for leukaemia. Publication Trends Over the last five years his output has focused on single-cell multi-omics of pre-leukaemic states, mitochondrial metabolic dependencies of DNMT3A-mutant clones, RNA-binding proteins as surface therapeutic targets, and ancestry-specific determinants of clonal expansion. These studies collectively highlight a trajectory from basic discovery (mechanisms of mutation-specific transformation) through pre-clinical validation (mouse models and CRISPR screens) to population-scale translation (UK Biobank & Mexico City cohorts). Scientific Awards & Honours Cancer Research UK Senior Fellowship Wellcome Senior Fellowship in Clinical Science European Research Council (ERC) grants Kay Kendall Leukaemia Fund Programme grants Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Scholar Awards Funding & Collaborations Current funding exceeds £20 M from Cancer Research UK, ERC, Blood Cancer UK, AstraZeneca, and other bodies. He co-directs the Cambridge Blood and Stem Cell Biobank and is an executive member of the Cambridge Haematological Malignancies Virtual Institute, fostering collaboration across Cambridge, the Sanger Institute, and international partners. Laboratory & Team The Vassiliou Group comprises ~25 members including post-doctoral scientists, graduate students, clinical research fellows, and bioinformaticians. Shared core facilities include single-cell genomics, CRISPR screening, and germ-free mouse units, ensuring seamless translation from bench to bedside.

Esther BellView profile

Professor

• Bioscience Education
• Neural Development
• Embryology
• +3 more

Professor Esther Bell is a faculty member at King's College London, serving as the Programme Director of the Biomedical Science BSc and a Professor in Bioscience Education within the School of Neuroscience and Developmental Neurobiology department. She holds a PhD and BSc from UCL University College London. Her research focuses on molecular mechanisms of neural induction and embryonic development, particularly in Xenopus laevis. She has pioneered innovative teaching methods, such as integrating science fiction and role-play into embryology education. Key publications span developmental biology and medical education, addressing topics like BMP signaling in neural crest induction and germ layer specification. Awards: EMBO fellowship (2000), MRC Career Development Award (2004), Rockefeller Women in Science fellowship (1999) Recent grants include projects on cytoskeletal differentiation in cranial ectoderm (2015–2016) and pharyngeal remodelling in development (2015–2019). She actively participates in academic outreach, including school engagement and public lectures like her 2024 inaugural talk on 'Hopping into Education: from Frogs to Pedagogues'.

• Developmental Biology
• Germ Cell Development
• Cell Signaling
• +2 more

Debabrata Das serves as Assistant Professor of Biology within the Arts & Sciences school at the College of William & Mary, joining the institution in 2025. His academic trajectory includes prior appointments at the Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas. Research Instructor (2022-2025) Postdoctoral Researcher (2017-2022) His educational foundation was established between 2009 and 2016, though specific institutional details and degrees remain unspecified in available documentation. Dr. Das's research centers on developmental biology with rigorous focus on molecular signaling pathways governing germ cell specification and maturation. His work investigates chromosomal behavior during meiotic division, particularly examining regulatory mechanisms that ensure accurate chromosome segregation and gamete formation. This research bridges cellular dynamics with genetic stability in reproductive biology. Instructionally, he delivers Molecular Cell Biology lectures, oversees laboratory courses, and directs a capstone seminar in developmental biology, emphasizing experimental design and critical analysis of embryonic patterning mechanisms.

• Cell Biology
• Lysosome-Related Organelle Biogenesis
• Membrane Trafficking
• +7 more

Megan Dennis is an Associate Professor of Biology in the School of Science at Marist College, where she conducts research and mentors undergraduate students in cell biology and bacteriophage discovery. She is actively involved in the SEA-PHAGES program and leads a research lab focused on lysosome-related organelle biogenesis. Education: PhD in Biomedical Sciences, University of New Mexico School of Medicine BS in Biology with minor in Philosophy, Gonzaga University Her research centers on the molecular mechanisms of lysosome-related organelle (LRO) biogenesis, particularly in melanocytes, where defects lead to diseases such as Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome. She uses mouse melanocyte models to study protein trafficking, membrane dynamics, and the roles of complexes like BLOC-1, BLOC-2, and AP-3. More recently, she has expanded into bacteriophage research with undergraduates, isolating and characterizing novel phages from campus environments. Her work bridges fundamental cell biology with innovative undergraduate research training. Her recent publications reflect a dual focus: (1) the molecular cell biology of LROs and membrane trafficking, and (2) STEM education research, particularly in course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) and inclusive education models. She has also published numerous bacteriophage genome sequences, often with student co-authors. Scientific Awards and Grants: 2023 NSF MRI Grant (Senior Personnel) - $884,934 for confocal microscope acquisition 2021–2024 NIH R15 Grant - $346,418 for chromatin and genomic integrity in germ cells 2019–2023 NIH R15 Grant - $379,914 for AP-3 in melanosome biogenesis 2012–2015 NIH NRSA Postdoctoral Fellowship 2010–2012 Penn-PORT Postdoctoral Fellowship (NIH IRACDA) Megan Dennis actively advises undergraduate researchers, many of whom are co-authors on her publications. She has secured significant external funding, demonstrating strong grant-writing success. Her lab integrates cutting-edge cell biology with hands-on training, and she collaborates nationally through the SEA-PHAGES program and NIH-funded projects. She previously served as a Visiting Instructor at Rutgers University-Camden. She is affiliated with a research laboratory at Marist where students engage in both LRO and phage research. She collaborates with institutions including the University of Pittsburgh and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute through the SEA-PHAGES program, and her work contributes to both basic science and science education reform.