Maximilian Billmann is Junior Professor at the University of Bonn's Institute of Human Genetics, developing computational methods for functional genomics and genetic network analysis. His research integrates CRISPR screens with machine learning to study cellular responses. Research Interests: Genetic interaction networks and pathway analysis CRISPR screen optimization and reproducibility Machine learning for functional genomics Mitochondrial function in disease Cancer signaling rewiring
Caius Gabriel Radu is a Professor in the Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology and the Department of Surgery at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Medicine. His research program focuses on understanding fundamental biological processes at the interface between metabolic and signal transduction networks in cancer, immune cells, and stromal cells, with the goal of developing new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Dr. Radu's research expertise spans cancer immunobiology, immunotherapy, nucleotide metabolism, and molecular imaging. His laboratory has established a highly integrated research program that includes state-of-the-art instrumentation for Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Mass Spectrometry platforms for metabolomics, proteomics, and phosphoproteomics. His interdisciplinary team collaborates with experts across UCLA and other institutions in molecular imaging, cancer metabolism, immunobiology, signal transduction, structural biology, radiochemistry, medicinal chemistry, and virology. Dr. Radu's research has led to significant discoveries, including uncovering a new role for the nucleoside salvage pathway in hematopoiesis, developing new PET probes for nucleotide metabolism (some of which have been translated to clinical use), and discovering novel small molecule inhibitors of metabolic kinases. One of these inhibitors has entered Phase I clinical trials (NCT05055609) for selected solid tumors and autoimmune disorders. His work also focuses on the immunobiology of pancreatic and prostate cancers, seeking to identify novel immunometabolic checkpoints that could be pharmacologically modulated alone or in combination with other therapies. Challenge Award, Prostate Cancer Foundation, 2017-2019 Challenge Award, Prostate Cancer Foundation, 2019-2021 Dr. Radu is currently Principal Investigator or Multiple Principal Investigator on multiple NIH-funded research projects, including studies on innovative mRNA vaccines for solid tumors, adenosine signaling in pancreatic cancer, PSMA-targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy, and targeting KRAS and adenosine-mediated immunosuppression. In collaboration with Dr. Norbert Pardi at UPenn, he has established a platform for evaluating mRNA lipid nanoparticle platforms for cancer immunotherapy.
Eishi Noguchi is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Drexel University College of Medicine and Director of the Molecular & Cell Biology & Genetics (MCBG) Graduate Program. He also directs courses in Molecular & Cellular Biology & Genetics and Cell Cycle & Apoptosis. His research focuses on genome maintenance mechanisms, cancer, and aging, using mammalian cells and the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe . Education: PhD in Molecular Biology (Kyushu University, Japan, 1997) followed by postdoctoral research at The Scripps Research Institute (2000-2004). Research Interests: Investigates DNA replication challenges at difficult chromosomal regions, alcohol-induced carcinogenesis, and lifespan extension via genomic integrity preservation. Current projects include mechanisms of alcohol-mediated esophageal cancer, replication fork stability, and calorie-restricted lifespan regulation. Scientific Awards: Includes the 2022 Elias Abrutyn Mentoring Award, 2018 Faculty Launch Leadership Fellowship, and 2009 Young Investigator Award. Recognized for contributions to mentoring and cancer research. Teaching & Advising: Supervises numerous graduate students and postdocs. Notable advisees include Jasmine Peake (Assistant Professor at Lincoln University) and Adam Leman (Lead Scientist at The Good Food Institute). Labs & Affiliations: Leads the Noguchi Lab, part of the Aging Initiative at Drexel Med. Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams across departments and institutions, advancing research in replication stress and environmental genotoxicology.
Akhil Vaidya, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology & Immunology at Drexel University College of Medicine, where he also serves as Director of the Center for Molecular Parasitology. He obtained his PhD from the University of Bombay in 1972. His research focuses on understanding the molecular functioning of malaria parasites to develop new antimalarial drugs, with particular emphasis on mitochondrial biology and parasite metabolism. His laboratory investigates essential mitochondrial processes in Plasmodium parasites including electron transport chain function, ATP synthase assembly, and pyrimidine biosynthesis pathways. These studies have led to discoveries of novel drug targets and mechanisms of existing antimalarials like atovaquone/proguanil (Malarone). Dr. Vaidya collaborates internationally on drug discovery projects with Medicines for Malaria Venture, including development of pyrazoleamide compounds that disrupt parasite sodium homeostasis. Research publications demonstrate consistent focus on molecular parasitology, mitochondrial function in apicomplexans, antimalarial drug mechanisms, and parasite metabolism. Recent work explores mitochondrial ribosomal proteins, metabolic roles of endosymbiotic organelles, and transcriptional regulation in Plasmodium. Honors & Awards: Provost Award for Outstanding Scholarly Productivity - Career (2024) Award for Excellence in Basic Science Mentoring (2023) He leads a research team including staff scientists Joanne Morrisey, Michael Mather, and Sudipta Das, and advises graduate students April Pershing, Ming Yang, Lindsay Pomykala, and Suyash Bhatnagar. His work is supported by grants from the NIH and Medicines for Malaria Venture.
Massimo Crimi is currently serving as an Associate Professor at the Department of Biotechnology , University of Verona . His research primarily focuses on plant physiology , with a strong emphasis on cellular signaling, apoptosis , and the role of lipids in cellular processes such as mitochondrial membrane dynamics and stress responses . Research Interests: Investigating the role of lipids in apoptosis , particularly in mitochondrial membrane piercing and signal transduction . Studying lipid transfer proteins (LTPs) and their involvement in plant signaling pathways and pathogen defense . Exploring lipid signaling in plant stress response and symbiotic associations with rhizobia. Teaching Roles : Instructor for Cell Biology courses at the bachelor’s level. Lecturer for Biology and Natural Sciences in the Combined Bachelor's + Master's degree in Primary School Education . Teaching responsibilities include both theoretical and laboratory modules in courses such as BIOLOGIA GENERALE E CELLULARE and FISIOLOGIA . Research Projects : Progetto di Ricerca per Potenziare la Competitività di Orticole in Aree meridionali (P.R.O.M.) – Focused on enhancing competitiveness in southern horticultural areas. Ruolo delle Lipid Transfer Protein come proteine di difesa – Studied antimicrobial activity of LTPs and lipid exchange mechanisms. Lipid transfer proteins e membrane biologiche – Analyzed direct and lipid/protein-mediated membrane interactions. EMOGLOBINES E NITRIC OXIDE IN PLANT DEFENSE RESPONSES – Investigated the role of nitric oxide and hemoglobins in plant defense. Publications and Research Contributions : Massimo Crimi has published extensively on topics such as apoptosis , lipid signaling , mitochondrial membrane dynamics , and lipid transfer proteins in plant immunity . His work spans from the early studies on forage legumes post-genomics to recent investigations into signaling LTPs and their role in plant stress sensing . Third Mission Involvement : Active in terza missione (third mission) activities, including public engagement and professional training programs . Contributed to continuing education and outreach initiatives through organized events and educational modules. University Roles and Committees : Chair of the Biotechnology Teaching Committee . Member of the Collegio Didattico di Scienze della Formazione Primaria (Primary Education Academic Board). Member of the Doctoral School in Nanotechnology and Biomedical Nanomaterials . Part of the Commissione AQ Didattica (Teaching Quality Committee). Member of the Departmental Council and Scientific and Technological Department Board .
Dr. Chukwumaobim Nwokwu ("Mazi Chuma") is an Assistant Professor of Biochemistry at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), affiliated with the Department of Chemistry & Physics within the College of Arts & Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Science and Nanotechnology from Louisiana Tech University, an M.S. in Molecular Life Sciences (University of Colombo, Sri Lanka), and an M.S. in Engineering & Technology Management. His 12+ years of interdisciplinary research bridges biochemistry, nanotechnology, and biomedical engineering. Research Focus : His work centers on cancer therapeutics, exosome/extracellular RNA technology, and natural product drug discovery. Key projects include developing microprobe-based exosome isolation tools (ExoPRIME) and investigating bioactive compounds from medicinal plants. He explores nanomedicine strategies to enhance drug efficacy and target metabolic pathways in cancer. Teaching & Collaboration : Teaches Biochemistry and General Chemistry at FGCU, integrating research into coursework to connect theory with real-world applications. Collaborates with the Water School and other institutions to expand student exposure. Active in professional societies like Sigma XI, ASEMV, and NSBMB. Awards : Winner of COES Symposium Best Presentation (2018), LASM 2nd Place Oral (2020), and CBERS Research Award (2021). Community : Engages in leadership roles, freelance writing, and sports advocacy.
Olivia L. Francis-Boyle, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Schools of Pharmacy and Medicine at Loma Linda University and Principal Investigator of an independent research program. She teaches immunology and endocrinology and focuses on acute leukemia mechanisms, therapeutic development, and drug modeling. Her research employs patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, in vitro/in vivo approaches, and high-throughput sequencing. Education: PhD in Molecular Biology, Loma Linda University (2015) MS in Biomedical Science, Walden University (2011) BS in Biology, Andrews University (2005) Research Interests: Investigating cellular/molecular mechanisms of acute leukemias (AML/ALL), evaluating therapeutic candidates (biologics, small molecules, immunotherapies), and leveraging PDX models for precision medicine. Recent Article Trends: Her work spans leukemia drug development, TSLP signaling in B-ALL, and metabolic pathways in AML. Key themes include xenograft models, therapeutic screening, and molecular mechanisms. Grants & Advising: Principal Investigator: Combination anti-PD1 therapy and TILs for AML (2020-2025) Completed grants include TSLP in pediatric B-ALL (2012-2013) and Hyundai Hope on Wheels (2015-2016) Labs & Teams: Leads a lab training students/fellows in leukemia research, collaborating on preclinical drug models and translational studies.
Dr. Patrick J. Mulholland is a Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), part of the College of Medicine. He holds dual affiliations in the Departments of Neuroscience and Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences. His research focuses on neural mechanisms underlying alcohol addiction, synaptic plasticity, and the neurotoxic effects of alcohol. Dr. Mulholland earned his PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychopharmacology from the University of Kentucky before completing postdoctoral training at MUSC. He was promoted to Associate Professor in 2015 and Professor in 2020. His research investigates how alcohol exposure alters synaptic function, particularly through glutamatergic systems and potassium channel regulation. Key areas include ethanol-induced neurotoxicity, dendritic spine adaptations, and stress-alcohol interactions. He leads components of the Charleston Alcohol Research Center, serving as PI of a research program and Co-Director of the Pilot Project Core. Dr. Mulholland’s work spans preclinical models, exploring mechanisms of alcohol dependence, relapse, and neural circuit dysregulation. Education: PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience & Psychopharmacology (University of Kentucky) Publications highlight studies on ethanol’s effects on hippocampal and cerebellar neurons, glucocorticoid interactions, and novel therapeutic targets for alcohol use disorders. His lab employs electrophysiology, slice cultures, and behavioral assays to dissect addiction-related neuroplasticity. Collaborative projects include investigating Kcnq4 channel regulation and cross-species synaptic biomarkers in heavy-drinking macaques.
Prof. Richard Wagner is an Adjunct Professor of Biophysics at the School of Science, Constructor University Bremen gGmbH. His research focuses on membrane biology, protein transport mechanisms, and ion channel function. Notable contributions include studies on mitochondrial and chloroplast protein translocation channels, lipid bilayer dynamics, and the structural analysis of pore-forming proteins. Key research areas include: Characterization of mitochondrial import pores (Tom40, Tim23) Analysis of chloroplast envelope channels (Toc75, OEP proteins) Development of microfluidic techniques for membrane protein analysis Investigation of antibiotic permeation through bacterial porins His work integrates electrophysiology, single-molecule imaging, and computational modeling to study membrane transport at molecular resolution. Over 200 peer-reviewed publications demonstrate contributions to understanding cellular organelle protein import pathways and nanopore-based biophysical systems.
Prof. Dr. Klaus Ebnet is a Full Professor at the University of Muenster, leading the Ebnet Lab: Cell Adhesion and Cell Polarity within the Center for Molecular Biology of Inflammation (ZMBE). His work focuses on understanding molecular mechanisms of cell-cell interactions, cell polarity establishment, and adhesion molecule functions such as Junctional Adhesion Molecules (JAMs) and integrins. He holds a position in the Institute of Medical Biochemistry and participates in the 'Cells in Motion' research initiative. Research Interests: Regulation of epithelial cell polarity via adhesion receptors JAM-A-integrin signaling complexes in cell migration Role of TMIGD1 in microvillus formation and mitochondrial interactions Mechanical regulation of tight junction assembly Cell adhesion dynamics in angiogenesis and cancer metastasis Publications (selected 2022-2012): Focus on molecular mechanisms of cell adhesion, polarity maintenance, and their disruption in disease contexts. Highlights include discoveries about JAM-A's role in spindle orientation during mitosis, integrin cross-talk in collective cell migration, and the TMIGD1-based adhesion complex in intestinal development. Labs/Teams: Leads the Ebnet Lab at ZMBE, collaborating in interdisciplinary imaging networks. Active in training graduate students through the 'Cells in Motion' graduate school program.
Venuprasad Poojary, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Departments of Internal Medicine and Immunology at UT Southwestern Medical Center and a member of the Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases. He joined the faculty in 2019. His research focuses on regulatory mechanisms of immune cells in gastrointestinal inflammation and cancer, with a goal to identify therapeutic targets for chronic inflammatory diseases. Education: B.Sc. in Biochemistry (Mangalore University), M.Sc. in Bioscience (Mangalore University), Ph.D. in Immunology (National Center for Cell Science, Kolkata). Postdoctoral training at La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology (San Diego). Research interests include Th17 cell regulation, RORγt signaling, mitochondrial dysfunction in inflammation, and immunotherapeutic approaches for intestinal disorders. His lab investigates mechanisms linking inflammation to cancer and autoimmune conditions, with recent work on protein modifications and mitochondrial pathways. Publications span topics like colonic inflammation, T-cell exhaustion, and Wnt/β-catenin inhibition, emphasizing translational research. He is affiliated with professional organizations including the American Association of Immunologists and American Association for Cancer Research. Led by Dr. Poojary, the Poojary Research Lab collaborates on projects addressing immune checkpoints and therapeutic development. No specific grants or advisees are listed, but the lab actively engages in collaborative research initiatives.
Dayoung Oh is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center and a member of the Touchstone Diabetes Center. She holds a Ph.D. in molecular endocrinology and completed postdoctoral training at UC San Diego under Jerrold Olefsky. Her research focuses on G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), particularly GPR120, in metabolic syndromes like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and chronic inflammation. She employs biochemical and physiological approaches, including GPCR knockout models and cell-based studies, to elucidate molecular mechanisms and identify therapeutic targets. Education: Ph.D. in molecular endocrinology (university unspecified), postdoctoral training at UC San Diego. Research Interests: GPCR signaling pathways, orphan GPCR ligand identification, omega-3 fatty acid receptor function, macrophage-mediated inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome pathophysiology. Her work bridges basic science and translational research, aiming to improve metabolic health through GPCR-targeted therapies. Teaching and Service: Teaches at the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and serves on committees for the Molecular Metabolism and Metabolic Diseases Program. Labs and Affiliations: Leads the Oh Laboratory at UT Southwestern and collaborates within the Touchstone Diabetes Center. Research emphasizes GPCR-driven metabolic processes and therapeutic innovations.
Professor James Bron is a Professor of Aquatic Animal Health and Head of the Aquatic Parasitology Research Group at the University of Stirling's Institute of Aquaculture. He holds a BSc in Zoology with Marine Zoology (University of North Wales, Bangor), an MSc in Bioarchaeology (University College London), and a PhD from the University of Stirling (1987). His career spans over 30 years focused on aquatic parasitology, finfish health, and disease control in aquaculture. He leads interdisciplinary research on sea lice, bacterial/viral pathogens, and gill diseases (e.g., AGD), emphasizing applied solutions such as vaccines, genetic resistance, and engineering interventions. His work integrates microscopy (SEM/TEM/confocal), modeling, and functional feed development, with funding from BBSRC, EU Horizon, and industry partners. He collaborates globally on projects addressing sustainable aquaculture challenges. Research Interests: Sea lice biology and control mechanisms Genetic resistance to pathogens Immunological responses in fish Novel treatments and diagnostics Functional feed development Key Contributions: Over 150 publications and 18 research projects. His team pioneered studies on sea lice resistance to chemicals, developed imaging techniques for parasite detection, and advanced genomic approaches for disease management. He chairs the Aquaculture Health group and advises on EU regulatory frameworks for aquatic pathogens.
Guoying Bing is a Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Kentucky's College of Medicine. Her research focuses on neuroinflammatory mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Institution: University of Kentucky, College of Medicine Department: Neuroscience Academic Rank: Professor Research Interests: Dr. Bing investigates how microglial activation and xenobiotic metabolites contribute to dopaminergic cell death in PD models, and the role of microsomal epoxide hydrolase (mEH) in neurodegeneration. Current work explores mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammatory pathways. Publication Trends: Recent studies examine neurotoxicity from environmental chemicals (e.g., trichloroethylene, chlorpyrifos), glial-neuronal interactions, and therapeutic agents like pioglitazone and ginsenosides. Keywords span Mitochondrial Bioenergetics , Neuroinflammation , and Xenobiotic Metabolism . Laboratory Work: Her lab has developed LPS injection models for PD and studied mEH's dual role in activating/inactivating neurotoxic compounds. Collaborative studies involve neurodegenerative signaling pathways (e.g., NF-κB, JNK, PPARγ) and neuroprotective strategies.
Leslie B. Poole serves as Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, where she has been faculty since 1992. She holds leadership roles as Director of the Center for Structural Biology and Co-Director of the Center for Redox Biology & Medicine, contributing significantly to institutional research infrastructure and scientific community engagement. Her educational background includes: B.A. in Biology & Chemistry, Wake Forest University (1980) Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Wake Forest University (1988) Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Maryland-College Park (1988-1991) Dr. Poole is an internationally recognized expert in redox biology , specializing in oxidation/reduction control of protein and enzyme function. Her pioneering work defined the chemistry of biological thiol redox reactions and established hydrogen peroxide as a critical signaling molecule. Her research bridges biochemistry , cancer biology , and translational medicine , with applications in developing novel therapeutics and diagnostic tools for oxidative stress-related diseases. Current investigations focus on redox regulation in cancer progression, cardiotoxicity of chemotherapeutics, and mitochondrial oxidative stress mechanisms. Analysis of her recent publications (2022-2025) reveals persistent emphasis on peroxiredoxin function, protein sulfenylation detection, and redox-mediated signaling in cancer and inflammation. Key trends include therapeutic targeting of redox vulnerabilities in KRAS-mutant cancers, mitochondrial redox control of immune responses, and innovative approaches to mitigate chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity through redox modulation. Her scientific recognition includes: 2024 WFU Friends of Chemistry Distinguished Alumni Award Dr. Poole has secured over $16 million in extramural funding (94% from NIH), demonstrating exceptional grant-writing success. She has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows while leading collaborative research initiatives. Her administrative contributions span university committees including safety oversight and Women in Medicine & Science advocacy. She directs the Center for Structural Biology and co-directs the Center for Redox Biology & Medicine, where her team develops redox-based detection technologies including the patented platform commercialized through Xoder Tech, LLC, a Women Owned Small Business she co-founded.
