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Bassel SawayaView profile

Professor

• HIV-1 Pathogenesis
• Neurocognitive Disorders
• Viral Protein Mechanisms
• +5 more

Bassel Sawaya, PhD, MS is a Professor at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine , Temple University , with affiliations to the Fels Cancer Institute for Personalized Medicine , Center for Substance Abuse Research , and Neural Sciences department. His research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of HIV-1 associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) in the HAART era. Research interests include: Neurotoxic effects of HIV-1 proteins (Tat, Vpr, gp120) MicroRNA regulation in neurodegeneration Metabolic reprogramming in viral pathogenesis Blood-brain barrier dysfunction Neuronal injury mechanisms Recent publications highlight: 2025 study on CK1δ-SNAPIN-lysosomal dysfunction in HAND 2023 discoveries on gp120-calcineurin pathway interactions 2022 work on metabolic shifts in neuroAIDS and SARS-CoV-2 2019-2013 investigations into Tat/Vpr neurotoxicity His lab employs molecular, virological, and cellular approaches to dissect HIV-1 pathogenesis. Current work explores therapeutic targets for HAND through microRNA and metabolic pathway modulation.

Thomas RogersView profile

Professor

• GPCR Signaling
• Inflammatory Responses
• Opioid Receptors
• +3 more

Thomas Rogers, PhD is a Professor at Temple University's Lewis Katz School of Medicine, holding appointments across multiple centers including the Center for Inflammation and Lung Research, Center for Substance Abuse Research, and Fels Cancer Institute. His research focuses on G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling mechanisms in inflammatory responses, particularly opioid and chemokine receptor interactions. He investigates heterologous desensitization processes and their therapeutic potential for chronic inflammatory diseases like COPD. Dr. Rogers earned his PhD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Research interests include: 1) Cross-talk between GPCRs at functional and transcriptional levels 2) Immune-modulatory roles of opioid receptors 3) COPD immunopathogenesis mechanisms 4) Development of novel anti-inflammatory therapies through GPCR manipulation. Publications span neuroimmunology, pharmacology, and respiratory medicine, emphasizing receptor signaling networks and inflammatory disease mechanisms. Active in COPD research, exploring unique inflammatory profiles in severe cases.

• Biostatistics
• Statistical Genetics
• Genetic Epidemiology
• +3 more

Hemant Tiwari is a full-time Professor of Biostatistics at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Public Health , with simultaneous senior scientist appointments at multiple UAB research centers including the Nephrology Research & Training Center and Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS) . Holding a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Notre Dame, he transitioned to statistical genetics through postdoctoral work at LSU Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, joining UAB in 2002. Doctor of Philosophy, Mathematics - University of Notre Dame (1986) His research focuses on genetic epidemiology , epigenetics , and multi-omics analysis of complex diseases like stroke, obesity, and autoimmune disorders. He has pioneered methods for polygenic risk score calibration and ancestry-specific genomic studies , particularly in African American populations. Recent work highlights include machine learning stroke prediction models for Sub-Saharan Africa and African ancestry-specific BMI risk alleles . Grants from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and American Heart Association support his research on cardiorenal genomics and stress-induced epigenetic modifications. As Vice Chair for Research and Faculty Development , he oversees academic initiatives while maintaining active collaborations across UAB's Comprehensive Diabetes Center , Cancer Center , and other multidisciplinary hubs.

Axel BehrensView profile

Professor

• Stem Cell Biology
• Ubiquitylation
• Transcription
• +5 more

Axel Behrens is a prominent academic and researcher in the field of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, currently holding the position of Senior Group Leader at The Francis Crick Institute in London, UK. He is also a Principal Fellow at King's College London and an Honorary Full Professor at University College London. Behrens is an EMBO member and has received an ERC Grant for his work. Education: Biological Sciences at Universities of Innsbruck and Vienna, Diploma and PhD from University of Vienna Academic: Honorary Full Professor at University College London, Senior Group Leader at The Francis Crick Institute Professional: Senior Scientist at Cancer Research UK, Principal Fellow at King's College London Behrens' research focuses on multiple areas including stem cells, ubiquitylation, transcription, DNA damage, and cancer biology. His work has particularly explored the role of the c-Jun protein in cellular processes, the function of Fbw7 in intestinal homeostasis and cancer, and the role of ATM signaling pathways in genomic stability. His recent publications (2011-2015) demonstrate a strong focus on molecular mechanisms in cancer development, particularly in intestinal and lung cancers, as well as the role of ubiquitin ligases and proteases in cell biology. These works explore areas such as: c-Jun phosphorylation and activation Ubiquitin-mediated protein degradation ATM signaling pathways Intestinal homeostasis and tumorigenesis Neuronal regeneration Pancreatic cell differentiation Axel Behrens has received several notable scientific awards including: EMBO Young Investigator Programme (2004) ERC Grant (2011) EMBO Membership (2012)

• Catalysis
• Materials Chemistry
• Biotechnology
• +3 more

Trevor Del Castillo is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). His research focuses on catalysis, materials chemistry, and biotechnology, with applications in mRNA delivery systems, nanomedicine, and sustainable energy solutions. He leads projects funded by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. Key research interests include designing robust catalysts for selective chemical transformations, developing targeted gene delivery vectors using Charge-Altering Releasable Transporters (CARTs), and advancing nitrogen fixation technologies using metallocene-mediated systems. His work combines experimental chemistry with high-throughput synthesis and mechanistic studies. Publications span from foundational studies on palladium catalysis and nitrogen fixation (e.g., electrocatalytic ammonia production) to applied research in mRNA delivery to lungs and lymphocytes. Media coverage highlights his contributions to biocompatible materials and catalytic innovation. He secured a federal grant (2019–2021) to explore structure-function relationships in CART-based mRNA delivery vectors. Collaborations span institutions globally, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to chemical challenges.

Noreen RobertsonView profile

Assistant Professor

• Cancer Biology
• Inflammatory Disease
• Molecular Biology
• +3 more

Noreen Robertson, DMD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at Drexel University College of Medicine and serves as the Associate Vice Dean for Research. Her roles include fostering interdisciplinary research collaborations and overseeing research infrastructure to enhance translational science and medical education. Education: DMD from Temple University School of Dentistry (1990), BA from West Chester University (1980), and a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University (1995). Research Interests: Cancer biology, inflammatory diseases, apoptosis regulation, and molecular mechanisms of hormone receptors. Her work focuses on glucocorticoid/mineralocorticoid signaling, airway inflammation, and embryo implantation biomechanics. Her publications span over three decades, emphasizing apoptosis modulation, cytokine interactions, and translational research in oncology and immunology. Notable contributions include studies on TRAIL signaling in cancer cells and L-selectin-mediated embryo implantation mechanics. Awards: Lifetime Achievement Award (2024) from the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center Research Consortium for her leadership in collaborative research. She oversees research initiatives that bridge clinical practice and basic science, including core facilities and grant development. Her administrative leadership supports Drexel’s bid for National Cancer Institute comprehensive cancer center designation. Labs/Teams: Integral to the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center Research Consortium, collaborating across institutions and disciplines to reduce cancer burden in Philadelphia and surrounding regions.

Jessica OlsonView profile

Associate Professor

• Healthcare Disparities
• Cancer Research
• Maternal Health
• +5 more

Jessica Olson, PhD, MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Community Health at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), within the Institute for Health & Humanity. She holds leadership roles including Co-PI of the NIH-funded ASCEND WI Initiative addressing maternal health disparities, Director of Evaluation and Innovation in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and Co-Director of the Clinical and Translational Science Institute's Basic and Translational Science Program. Her research focuses on reducing cancer and maternal health disparities through interdisciplinary collaboration between clinical, basic science, and community stakeholders. Dr. Olson earned both her PhD and MPH from MCW in 2015 and 2017 respectively. Her work spans community-based participatory research, policy advocacy, and translational science. Notable projects include building trust between doulas and healthcare providers, investigating housing instability in birthing populations, and training future researchers in maternal health equity. Her publications emphasize interdisciplinary team dynamics, diet-cancer links, and racial disparities in healthcare access. Leadership positions include roles with the National Lung Cancer Roundtable and academic-police partnerships to address community health challenges. Dr. Olson’s work integrates social justice principles with clinical innovation to advance equitable healthcare outcomes.

Mark De Ste CroixView profile

Professor

• Sports injury prevention
• Youth sports development
• Exercise science
• +3 more

Prof Mark De Ste Croix is a Professor at the University of Gloucestershire, specializing in sports injury prevention and youth sports development. His work focuses on reducing injury risk in youth football and optimizing athletic performance through evidence-based interventions. He has published over 100 articles and presented globally, collaborating with organizations like FIFA, UEFA, and the English FA. Qualifications include a BA Ed (Hons) in Physical Education (University of Exeter, 1995) and a PhD on isokinetic leg strength (University of Exeter, 1998). Awards include the AAHPERD Research Writing Award and a Queen’s Anniversary Award for research at Exeter’s Children’s Health and Exercise Research Centre. His research emphasizes injury prevention through screening and program implementation, particularly with grassroots coaches and PE teachers. Current projects include an Erasmus+ initiative with Spain and the Czech Republic to improve youth injury prevention knowledge. He also works with elite clubs like Bristol City FC and Athletic Club Bilbao. Teaching focuses on the Masters Strength and Conditioning course and research methods at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. He supervises 12 PhD students and serves on editorial boards for Isokinetics and Exercise Science and BMC Pediatrics . External roles include advising the England and Wales Cricket Board, UEFA, and FIFA. He has examined courses at Liverpool John Moores University and Marjon’s BSc Exercise and Health program.

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Transplantation Medicine
• +5 more

Anastasios Giannou is a Professor affiliated with the Medizinische Fakultät at Universität Hamburg , likely within the Department of Surgery or Immunology/Oncology. His research focuses on immunological mechanisms in cancer metastasis, cytokine biology, and translational oncology. He has contributed significantly to understanding tumor-immune interactions, particularly the roles of IL-10, IL-22, and regulatory T cells in promoting metastasis. His work integrates preclinical models with clinical insights, addressing challenges in solid organ transplantation tolerance and pancreatic/gastrointestinal cancers. Giannou has published extensively on topics such as microbiota-drug interactions in chemotherapy efficacy, developmental biology of pancreatic dysfunction, and mechanistic links between inflammation and tumorigenesis. His articles highlight interdisciplinary approaches, combining immunology, molecular biology, and oncology to explore pathways like TGF-β signaling in Th17 cells and IL-22BP regulation in liver metastasis. Experimental models include mouse orthotopic transplantations and in vitro systems to study metastatic progression. Giannou’s work bridges basic science and clinical applications, aiming to improve therapeutic strategies for cancer and inflammatory diseases.

Anna PanchenkoView profile

Professor

• Computational Biology
• Biophysics
• Bioinformatics
• +7 more

Dr. Anna Panchenko is a Professor at Queen's University, holding appointments in the Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine (School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences) and the School of Computing (Faculty of Arts and Science). She is also a Senior Investigator at the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) and holds a Tier I Canada Research Chair in Computational Biology and Biophysics. Her research focuses on understanding cancer progression mechanisms, particularly how genetic and epigenetic factors influence mutations and their effects on proteins, interactions, and chromatin dynamics. She employs computational methods, including machine learning and molecular dynamics simulations, to study nucleosome positioning, histone interactions, and mutagenesis processes. Education: PhD in Biophysics (Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1993), BSc in Biophysics (Lomonosov Moscow State University, 1989). Research Interests: Computational biology, epigenetics, cancer genomics, molecular modeling, and machine learning applications in biomedicine. Her work integrates hypothesis-driven and data-driven approaches to uncover molecular mechanisms underlying cancer development. Notable Awards: Tier I Canada Research Chair in Computational Biology and Biophysics. Collaborations: Cross-disciplinary collaborations with OICR, Vector Institute for AI, and Queen's Cancer Research Institute. Tools developed include HYDROID for footprinting analysis and MutaBind for predicting mutation impacts on protein interactions. Labs: Computational Biology and Biophysics Lab at Queen's University, focusing on cancer driver mutations and epigenetic mechanisms.

Shantu AminView profile

Professor

• Chemical Carcinogenesis
• Environmental Toxicology
• Drug Resistance Mechanisms
• +3 more

Shantu Amin is a Professor in the Department of Pharmacology at the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, located in Hershey, PA. His research focuses on mechanisms of chemical carcinogenesis, particularly the role of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their mutagenic effects. He investigates structure-activity relationships of carcinogenic compounds and strategies for chemoprevention. Key areas include DNA adduct formation, environmental carcinogens like dibenzo[a,l]pyrene, and the interplay between microbial metabolites and host signaling pathways (e.g., Ah receptor activation). Recent work explores drug-tolerant persister cells in cancer therapy resistance and the development of novel therapeutic agents. Amin collaborates widely, with contributions to studies on bile acid metabolism, miRNA delivery systems, and the gut-lung axis. His work bridges basic science with translational research, aiming to reduce cancer morbidity through targeted interventions.

Lothar R. SchadView profile

Professor

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• +4 more

Prof. Lothar R. Schad is a Professor at the Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University , leading the Computer Assisted Clinical Medicine department. His research focuses on advancing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques for oncological radiotherapy planning and monitoring, including sodium imaging, diffusion tensor imaging, and lung/perfusion imaging. The group operates 3×1.5T and 2×3T MRI systems, with access to a 9.4T animal MRI system. Key research areas include: Quantitative biomarker development for diagnosis and therapy monitoring Integration of multi-modal imaging (CT/MRI/PET) Development of high-resolution protocols for clinical applications Current projects involve translational studies using animal models (rat/mouse) and bioreactor systems. Collaborations exist with radiology, neurology, and cardiology departments. Recent work emphasizes physiological MRI (perfusion, diffusion, oxygenation) in abdominal organs and sodium imaging for tissue viability assessment. Notable contributions include ultra-high-resolution glomeruli imaging in rat kidneys (9.4T), clinical diffusion kurtosis applications, and lung perfusion/ventilation mapping at 1.5T. The team also develops image-guided interventions using robotic systems like ZEEGO.

Sara AuldView profile

Associate Professor

• Tuberculosis (TB) epidemiology
• HIV-TB co-infection
• Pulmonary immune responses
• +4 more

Sara Auld, MD, MSc is an Associate Professor of Medicine in the Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine at Emory University School of Medicine. She holds an affiliation with the Department of Epidemiology and practices at Emory University Hospital Midtown, where she teaches medical students, residents, and fellows in the Medical ICU and pulmonary consult services. Her research focuses on TB epidemiology, HIV-TB co-infection, host immune responses (particularly alveolar macrophage function), and post-treatment lung complications. Dr. Auld completed her medical degree at Columbia University and residency at Massachusetts General Hospital, with prior service at the CDC as an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer in TB prevention. Education: Bachelor’s in History, Stanford University MD, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons MSc in Clinical Research, Emory University Laney Graduate School Research Interests: Her work bridges clinical epidemiology and immunology, investigating TB transmission dynamics, HIV’s impact on immune defenses against TB, and long-term pulmonary sequelae of TB treatment. Recent studies explore biomarkers for post-TB lung disease, spatial epidemiology of drug-resistant TB, and the role of alcohol use in impairing macrophage function. She leads initiatives to improve post-treatment care and advocate for global TB/HIV co-management strategies. Advising & Grants: While specific grant details are not listed, her research aligns with NIH-funded priorities in TB and HIV research. She mentors trainees through Emory’s clinical and epidemiology programs. Her work has informed international guidelines for post-TB care and pandemic response strategies. Labs/Teams: Collaborates with multidisciplinary teams including the Emory Tuberculosis Research Unit, Global Health Institute, and CDC. Active in international symposia on post-infectious pulmonary complications and host-directed therapies.

Zeinab AbdelrahmanView profile

Research Fellow

• Kidney Health
• Bioinformatics
• Machine Learning
• +7 more

Zeinab Abdelrahman is a Research Fellow at Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), based in the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences within the Centre for Public Health. She holds a Ph.D. in clinical pharmacy from China Pharmaceutical University and has over four years of experience in molecular biology and bioinformatics. Her current research focuses on analyzing multi-omics data from the Northern Ireland Cohort for the Longitudinal Study of Ageing (NICOLA), investigating genetic variations in diabetic kidney disease and new-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT). Affiliations: Queen’s University Belfast, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences Roles: Research Fellow, Postdoctoral Researcher Her research interests encompass kidney health, bioinformatics, machine learning, molecular epidemiology, genomics, cancer research, and public health. She has contributed to over 26 peer-reviewed publications and actively participates in collaborative projects, including organizing events like the Kidney Canvas festival. Her work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health equity and innovation. In 2024, she received the prestigious Dr Jennifer McCaughan Bursary award recognizing her contributions to medical research. Her recent work emphasizes data-driven approaches to unravel complex disease mechanisms and improve clinical outcomes in transplant recipients and aging populations.

• Immunology
• COVID-19 Research
• Respiratory Disorders
• +5 more

Lynn Martinez is a Researcher at the University of Leicester's College of Medicine, Biological Sciences and Psychology, specializing in the Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation. With 55 citations to her name, she has established herself as a significant contributor to post-COVID-19 research through major collaborative projects including the PHOSP-COVID Study and ISARIC4C Investigators. Her research focuses on the immunological and respiratory consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly examining accelerated immune aging in relation to disease severity, determinants of recovery from post-COVID dyspnea, and the relationship between sleep disturbances and impaired lung function following hospitalization. Martinez has contributed to several high-impact publications in journals including Immunity and Ageing , The Lancet Regional Health - Europe , and The Lancet Respiratory Medicine . Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to good health and well-being, particularly in understanding long-term health consequences of viral pandemics. Martinez's research spans multiple disciplines including immunology, respiratory medicine, sleep science, and epidemiology, with her most recent work extending into particle physics through the T2K Collaboration. Martinez has collaborated extensively with researchers across the UK and internationally, contributing to large-scale studies that have been widely disseminated, with her work picked up by 73 news outlets and shared across various social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Mendeley.