Find Academic Supervisors

• Genetics
• Developmental Biology
• Physiology
• +2 more

Helena Kilpinen is an Associate Professor at the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) , University of Helsinki, specializing in cellular genetics of disease. She supervises the Doctoral Programme Brain & Mind and focuses on neurodevelopmental disorders, stem cell biology, and genetic variation. Academic Rank: Associate Professor Institution: University of Helsinki Research Institute: HiLIFE Supervision: Doctoral Programme Brain & Mind Her research spans genetics , developmental biology , and neurosciences , with recent work on CRISPR-based cellular reprogramming, somatic mutations in iPSC-derived neurons, and allelic gene expression quantification. Key subfields include induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), histone modifications, and translational therapies for neurodevelopmental disorders. Recent publications emphasize stem cell differentiation , epigenetic mechanisms , and genomic analysis in rare developmental diseases. She collaborates on projects funded by the Academy of Finland, Sigrid Jusélius Foundation, and Päivikki ja Sakari Sohlbergin säätiö. Projects Academy of Finland (2021–2027): Effect of common genetic variation on neuronal phenotypes in rare developmental disorders Sigrid Jusélius Foundation (2023–2026): Yleisen geneettisen variaation vaikutus hermosolujen ilmiasuun harvinaisissa kehityshäiriöissä Päivikki ja Sakari Sohlbergin säätiö (2025): Foundation grant for neurogenetics research

Helena Jernberg WiklundView profile

Professor

• Translational research
• Epigenetics
• Drug discovery
• +7 more

Helena Jernberg Wiklund is a Professor at Uppsala University's Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology within the Faculty of Medicine. She leads the Cancer Precision Medicine Research Program and serves as Director of Postgraduate Studies at Rudbeck Laboratory. Professor Jernberg Wiklund also sits on the Faculty Board at the Medical Faculty and participates in international (MMRF, IMF, AICR) and national (Barncancerfonden and Cancerfonden) grant review committees. Her research focuses on translational cancer biology with particular emphasis on multiple myeloma (MM), one of Sweden's most common blood cancers. She investigates mechanisms of survival and cell death in MM, using various model systems including cultured cells, patient tumor cells, and mouse models that accurately represent human disease. Her work aims to identify molecules essential for tumor cell survival that could be targeted to restore apoptosis and improve therapeutic outcomes. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on epigenetic mechanisms in multiple myeloma, particularly involving EZH2, DNMTs, and lncRNA-mediated chromatin dynamics. Her research spans across molecular biology, cancer metabolism, and immunotherapy approaches, demonstrating an integrated approach to understanding and treating hematological malignancies. Professor Jernberg Wiklund actively mentors PhD students and researchers in her laboratory, contributing to the next generation of cancer researchers. She also engages in course administration, examination, and teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, while serving as a moderator and abstract coordinator for international scientific meetings.

Jose TeixeiraView profile

Professor

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

Jose Teixeira is a Professor at Michigan State University's College of Human Medicine, affiliated with the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology. His research focuses on developmental biology and genetics, particularly in the context of gynecological disorders and cancers. Studied fibroid tumors, endometrial/ovarian cancers Investigates genetic pathways for disease progression Pioneered molecular understanding of reproductive tract development His recent publications highlight work on HMGA2 overexpression, stem cell markers like CRIP1, and epigenetic mechanisms in fibroid pathogenesis. Key trends include the intersection of developmental genetics and tumor biology, with applications in precision medicine for uterine disorders. Active in methodological advances like STORM-seq for single-cell analysis and exploring racial disparities in fibroid biology. Email: teixei15@msu.edu .

• Mitochondrial Biology
• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Aging Research
• +5 more

Yuan Li is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences. Their research focuses on how mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired mitophagy contribute to brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease. They utilize patient-derived cells and iPSC-differentiated brain cells for disease modeling and drug screening to uncover underlying mechanisms and identify promising therapeutic targets. Dr. Li's research spans multiple interconnected domains: Mitochondrial biology in aging processes Mitophagy mechanisms in neurodegenerative disorders Alzheimer's disease pathology and progression Cellular modeling of age-related neurological conditions Therapeutic target identification for neurodegeneration Interactions between mitochondrial dysfunction and other aging hallmarks Drug screening approaches using patient-derived cellular models Analysis of Dr. Li's publication record reveals a strong research trajectory focused on the molecular mechanisms linking mitochondrial health to brain aging. Their work demonstrates progression from fundamental cellular mechanisms (2019-2023) to integrated approaches examining multiple aging hallmarks (2024-2025). The research shows particular emphasis on Alzheimer's disease, with multiple publications examining mitochondrial alterations in patient cells, transcriptomic changes in disease-affected brain regions, and potential therapeutic interventions targeting mitochondrial function. Dr. Li maintains an active research profile with publications appearing in high-impact journals including Nature Communications, Aging Cell, and Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience. Their work has received significant attention across scientific and public platforms, with multiple publications highlighted by news outlets, shared across social media channels, and referenced in academic resources including Wikipedia. As part of the Molecular Aging Program, Dr. Li contributes to a collaborative research environment focused on understanding fundamental aging mechanisms and developing interventions for age-related diseases. Their laboratory employs advanced cellular modeling techniques to investigate disease mechanisms and identify potential therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative conditions.

Valeria CavalliView profile

Professor

• Axon Regeneration
• Peripheral Nervous System
• Central Nervous System
• +4 more

Valeria Cavalli, PhD, is the Robert E. and Louise F. Dunn Professor of Biomedical Research and Professor of Neuroscience at Washington University School of Medicine. Her research focuses on axon regeneration mechanisms in sensory neurons and the role of satellite glial cells in sensory function and dysfunction. She leads the Cavalli Lab, which investigates molecular pathways in peripheral and central nervous system repair using biochemistry, cell biology, in vivo imaging, and single-cell sequencing approaches. Education: BS and Master in Biochemistry, University of Geneva, Switzerland (1987-1992) Predoctoral Research, University of Rome "La Sapienza" (1991-1994) Predoctoral Research, Biozentrum, Basel, Switzerland (1994-1995) PhD in Biochemistry, University of Geneva, Switzerland (1995-2000) Research Interests: Dr. Cavalli's work centers on intrinsic mechanisms of axon regeneration, satellite glial cell contributions to neural repair, and therapeutic strategies for CNS injuries. Her lab studies neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., Fragile X syndrome), aging-related sensory decline, and multicellular interactions in dorsal root ganglia. Key projects include epigenetic reprogramming after injury, endothelin receptor pathways, and macrophage-mediated regeneration. Publication Trends: Her recent articles (2021-2024) emphasize single-cell transcriptomics of sensory neurons, glial-neuronal interactions in pain/regeneration, and interventions for neurodevelopmental/aging models. Dominant themes include chromatin remodeling, receptor signaling (e.g., Endothelin B, GABAa), and cross-species molecular conservation. Awards: Robert E. and Louise F. Dunn Professorship (2021) NINDS Research Program Award (R35, 2020) Stein Innovation Award (2019) Jack Griffin Plenary Lecture (2019) Distinguished Investigator Award (2014) Advising & Grants: Dr. Cavalli mentors 19+ trainees (PhD/Master's students and postdocs) and secured major funding including an R35 award for "Multicellular Mechanisms Driving Axon Regeneration." Her lab collaborates with WashU departments (Genetics, Neurology, Anesthesiology) and external institutions like Weizmann Institute. Lab & Team: The Cavalli Lab comprises postdoctoral fellows, staff scientists, and undergraduates. Current members include Sarah Rosen (neuroimmunology), Irshad Ansari (membrane trafficking), and Brent Trauterman (lab operations). Alumni hold positions at universities and industry worldwide.

Yu ShiView profile

Physician Scientist

• Pediatric Anesthesiology
• Epidemiology
• Anesthesia Outcomes Research
• +3 more

Dr. Yu Shi, M.D., M.P.H., is a Physician Scientist at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine specializing in pediatric anesthesiology and outcomes research. Currently affiliated with the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine and Pediatrics, Dr. Shi leads investigations into anesthesia neurotoxicity, health disparities, and tobacco control. Research interests center on: Pediatric anesthesia safety and neurodevelopmental outcomes (MASK Study) Racial/ethnic disparities in surgical care and ADHD diagnosis Perioperative tobacco cessation interventions Epidemiology of anesthesia complications in children Recent publications span high-impact journals including Circulation , Science , and JAMA Network Open , with 2025 work focusing on vascular biology mechanisms and AI-driven protein modeling. Scientific recognition includes: Full Tuition Scholarship from Johns Hopkins (2007) Board Certification in Anesthesiology and Pediatric Anesthesiology (2016) Dr. Shi directs multiple institutional committees including the Pediatric Research Committee and AI Advisory Committee, with active grants supporting population-based outcomes research and tobacco control program implementation.

• Stem Cell Research
• Neural Reprogramming
• Epigenetics
• +5 more

Dr. Arshak R. Alexanian is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin and a member of the Cardiovascular Research Center. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, he has held faculty positions at Colorado State University and has been continuously affiliated with the Medical College of Wisconsin since 2001, progressing from Assistant Professor to his current adjunct position. Dr. Alexanian's research focuses on stem cell reprogramming, neural differentiation, and epigenetic mechanisms with applications for neurological disorders. His work bridges basic science and translational medicine, particularly in developing cell-based therapies for Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury, and glioblastoma. He has pioneered methods using small molecule combinations to reprogram mesenchymal stem cells into neural-like cells without genetic manipulation, creating promising therapeutic approaches. His recent publications (2022-2024) demonstrate continued productivity in epigenetic reprogramming, Parkinson's disease models, and glioblastoma treatment strategies. These works reveal a consistent research trajectory focused on developing clinically applicable stem cell technologies that emphasize safety, efficiency, and translational potential. Notable Scientific Awards: George Soros Foundation Award (1994) UNESCO International Training Course Award (1995) Committee of 6th European Symposium on Calcium Binding Proteins (2000) American Association of Anatomists Award (2002) Global Spine Congress Award (2009) World Forum for Spine Research Award (2010) Dr. Alexanian has secured significant research funding as Principal Investigator, including multiple NIH SBIR grants, NSF awards, and foundation support for his work on stem cell reprogramming and neural regeneration. His research program has consistently focused on developing clinically translatable approaches to neurological disorders through innovative stem cell technologies.

• Stem Cell Research
• Immunology
• Regenerative Medicine
• +4 more

Hiranmoy Das is a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), with prior academic appointments at The Ohio State University (Associate Professor, Internal Medicine), Case Western Reserve University (Assistant Professor, Internal Medicine), and Harvard Medical School (Instructor in Medicine). His research spans Stem Cell Biology , Immunology , and Regenerative Medicine , with specific expertise in: KLF2 transcription factor signaling in bone and neural systems Dental pulp-derived stem cell (DPSC) therapeutics Mitophagy/autophagy regulation in cell differentiation Osteoclastogenesis and bone remodeling Neuro-immune interactions in disease models Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2022-2025) reveals a dominant focus on DPSC-mediated regenerative mechanisms , particularly their secretome's role in modulating MAPK/AKT pathways for neuroinflammation control, wound healing, and bone regeneration. Key trends include KLF2 as a central regulator of mitophagy in neural/osteogenic differentiation and polyphenol compounds (Ellagic Acid, EGCG) targeting mitochondrial functions in disease models. Das maintains active research laboratories focused on stem cell therapeutics, with significant contributions to understanding: Mechanisms of DPSC in glioblastoma and stroke models Phytochemical regulation of osteoclast/osteoblast balance Neurovascular communication networks

Gyorgy HajnoczkyView profile

Professor

• Calcium Signaling
• Mitochondrial Biology
• Cell Death
• +3 more

Gyorgy Hajnoczky serves as the Raphael Rubin, MD Professor in Pathology, Anatomy & Cell Biology at Thomas Jefferson University's College of Life Sciences and directs the Mitochondrial Research Center. His educational background includes dual MD and PhD degrees from Semmelweis University, Budapest (1987), followed by election to the National Academy of Sciences of Hungary (1995). Dr. Hajnoczky's research investigates calcium signaling dynamics between endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria, with emphasis on mitochondrial regulation of cell life/death decisions. His laboratory employs advanced fluorometric imaging, electrophysiology, and 3D neural modeling to study calcium microdomains, metabolic regulation, and apoptosis mechanisms. Current work bridges fundamental calcium signaling with disease mechanisms in cancer and neurodegeneration. His publication portfolio reveals consistent focus on mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs), calcium-dependent cell death pathways, and metabolic reprogramming - spanning cancer therapeutics, Alzheimer's disease models, and mitochondrial quality control systems. National Academy of Sciences, Hungary (1995) As Director of the Mitochondrial Research Center, Dr. Hajnoczky leads institutional research infrastructure while maintaining active laboratory investigations into organelle communication. His work demonstrates translational potential through selective targeting of mitochondrial vulnerabilities in hepatocarcinoma and stabilization strategies for neurodegenerative pathways. The Mitochondrial Research Center under his direction provides specialized service centers (MitoCare) supporting calcium imaging and metabolic phenotyping for the broader research community.

• Brain tumors
• Molecular pathology
• Tumor microenvironment
• +9 more

Bjarne Winther Kristensen is a Clinical Professor of Pathology at the University of Copenhagen's Department of Clinical Medicine with research focus on brain cancer. He also serves as chief physician at Rigshospitalet-Copenhagen University Hospital and leads the Kristensen Group at BRIC - Biotech Research and Innovation Center. His leadership extends to international organizations as Vice-President of Euro-CNS and former President of the Scandinavian Neuropathological Society (2013-2016, 2019-2022). His educational background includes: Specialist in anatomical pathology and cytology (2010) Medical Doctor (M.D.) from University of Southern Denmark (2002) PhD from University of Southern Denmark (2000) Professor Kristensen's research focuses on understanding the molecular pathology and microenvironment of brain tumors to enable precise diagnostics and personalized therapy. His expertise spans spatial profiling, immunohistochemical multiplexing, digital pathology, biomarker quantification, and both in vitro and in vivo brain cancer models. His group emphasizes translational research using patient-derived brain cancer tissue and well-annotated patient cohorts. His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on glioblastoma and brain tumor microenvironment, with particular emphasis on resistance mechanisms, diagnostic techniques, and therapeutic approaches. His work integrates molecular biology, immunology, and clinical applications to address key challenges in neuro-oncology. His scientific recognition includes: Award from Inspiring Denmark for hosting XI Northern Lights Neuroscience Symposium on Brain Tumors (2015) Award from Inspiring Denmark for hosting 12th European Congress of Neuropathology (2020) Professor Kristensen has extensive supervisory experience with numerous PhD students, postdocs, and other researchers. He has served as PhD opponent for 11 candidates (4 international) and chaired 11 PhD evaluation committees. His management experience includes leadership roles at Rigshospitalet as Head of the Bartholin Institute and Head of Research, as well as chairing the Center for Precision Medicine at Odense University Hospital. His laboratory, the Kristensen Group at BRIC, maintains expertise across multiple advanced techniques including spatial profiling, immunohistochemical multiplexing, digital pathology, sequencing, genome-wide methylation profiling, transfection, confocal time-lapse microscopy, and western blot. The group emphasizes translational research with strong connections to clinical practice through Rigshospitalet.

Antonio GiraldezView profile

Professor

• Developmental Biology
• Gene Expression Regulation
• Genomics
• +9 more

Antonio Giraldez is the Fergus F. Wallace Professor of Genetics at Yale School of Medicine, where he has led his research laboratory since 2007. He served as Director of Graduate Studies (2012-2016) and Chair of the Genetics Department (2017-2023). His academic appointments span multiple departments and centers including Biochemistry, Quantitative Biology, Biophysics and Structural Biology (BQBS), the Center for RNA Science and Medicine, Yale Cancer Center, Yale Center for Genomic Health, Yale Combined Program in the Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS), and the Yale Stem Cell Center. Professor Giraldez's research focuses on understanding the regulatory code that governs gene expression during vertebrate development after fertilization. His lab investigates four interconnected areas: genome activation during the maternal-to-zygotic transition, post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, modeling of therapeutic mRNA design, and modeling of gene regulatory networks. Using zebrafish as a primary model organism combined with advanced genomic, computational, and imaging approaches, his lab has made significant contributions to understanding how transcription factors activate the embryonic genome and how RNA regulatory elements control mRNA stability and translation. Analysis of Professor Giraldez's recent publications reveals a strong focus on the molecular mechanisms of embryonic development, particularly the maternal-to-zygotic transition where control of development passes from maternal to embryonic factors. His work increasingly integrates high-throughput genomic approaches with computational modeling to decode regulatory elements in RNA that determine stability, translation efficiency, and tissue-specific expression - knowledge directly applicable to therapeutic mRNA design for gene therapy and vaccines. Scientific Awards and Honors: HHMI Faculty Scholar (2016) Blavatnik Award for Young Scientists National Finalist (2016) Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise in Biomedical Science (2014) Pew Scholar in Biomedical Sciences (2008) NYAS Blavatnik Young Investigator Award Finalist (2007) Professor Giraldez has established a productive research program with consistent funding and publication in top-tier journals. His lab maintains active collaborations with researchers across Yale and beyond, as evidenced by his frequent co-authorship with scientists from multiple departments. He has trained numerous students and postdocs who have gone on to independent research careers. The Giraldez Lab maintains a diverse team of researchers working at the intersection of developmental biology and genomics. The lab provides extensive resources including published datasets, computational tools like CRISPRscan, and detailed genomic annotations available through their data repository. Professor Giraldez's research program continues to advance our understanding of fundamental gene regulatory mechanisms with implications for both basic science and therapeutic applications.

Patrizia Casaccia-BonnefilView profile

Professor

• Epigenetics
• Myelin Repair
• Multiple Sclerosis
• +7 more

Dr. Patrizia Casaccia-Bonnefil serves as Professor of Neuroscience, Genetics and Genomic Sciences, and Neurology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where she leads the Center of Excellence for Myelin Repair at the Friedman Brain Institute. Her research develops novel therapeutic strategies for multiple sclerosis through molecular and cellular neuroscience approaches. Her academic foundation includes: MD with Honors from University of Rome (Policlinico A. Gemelli) PhD in Neurobiology from SUNY Health and Science Center Brooklyn Postdoctoral training at Cornell Weill Medical Center and NYU's Skirball Institute Dr. Casaccia's laboratory pioneers epigenetic research in myelin repair, investigating how aging and gender differences affect remyelination capacity in multiple sclerosis. Her team employs advanced techniques including genome-wide epigenetic profiling, neural stem cell reprogramming from patient skin, and in vivo imaging of demyelination models. A key innovation involves personalized medicine approaches using blood-based biomarkers to predict therapeutic responses. The Laboratory of Epigenetics of Neural Repair operates under continuous funding from NINDS and the National MS Society, focusing on two critical challenges: overcoming age-related decline in repair mechanisms and developing neuroprotective strategies to prevent axonal damage. Her work bridges basic epigenetic discoveries with clinical applications through Mount Sinai's integrated neuroscience ecosystem. Dr. Casaccia maintains active roles in graduate education through the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and demonstrates exceptional scientific citizenship through fluency in English, Spanish, and Italian, facilitating international collaboration in MS research.

Andrew P. LaneView profile

Professor

• Nasal polyps
• Chronic sinusitis
• Endoscopic orbital surgery
• +7 more

Dr. Andrew P. Lane is a Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and serves as the Director of the Johns Hopkins Sinus Center. With over two decades of experience since joining Johns Hopkins in 2001, he is recognized as the longest practicing sinus specialist with advanced fellowship training in the Baltimore/Washington region. Dr. Lane's research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying chronic rhinosinusitis, particularly the pathogenesis of nasal polyps and inflammation of the olfactory epithelium. His laboratory employs diverse techniques in molecular biology, immunology, and physiology to study epithelial cell innate immunity, olfactory loss, and response to viral infection. Key research areas include: Nasal polyps and chronic sinusitis pathogenesis Endoscopic orbital and skull base surgery Innate immunity of the nose and sinuses Inverted papilloma Olfactory loss due to chronic sinusitis Underlying mechanisms of chronic inflammation Through his extensive publication record of over 140 articles, Dr. Lane has established himself as a leader in rhinology research, with recent work focusing on the intersection of inflammation, olfactory function, and viral infections including SARS-CoV-2 variants. His laboratory creates and employs transgenic mouse models of chronic nasal/sinus inflammation and collaborates with the School of Public Health to explore mechanisms of anti-viral immunity. Dr. Lane has received numerous prestigious awards for his research, including the Earleen Elkins Research Award, GlaxoSmithKline research award, and Passano Foundation Clinician Scientist Award. He serves as Editor-in-Chief of Current Otorhinolaryngology Reports and holds editorial positions with several leading journals in the field. As a clinician, Dr. Lane maintains a busy practice performing the full range of endoscopic sinus procedures, including transnasal skull base and orbital surgeries. He is dedicated to providing cutting-edge care to his patients while developing new therapies for chronic rhinosinusitis through his clinical and basic science research.

• Animal cell culture engineering
• Therapeutic protein production
• Viral vector production for gene therapy
• +5 more

Professor Gyun Min Lee is a faculty member in the Department of Biological Sciences at Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), where he leads the Animal Cell Engineering Lab. His research focuses on developing advanced mammalian cell systems for therapeutic protein and viral vector production through innovative engineering approaches. Dr. Lee earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan, providing him with a strong foundation at the intersection of engineering principles and biological systems. His technical expertise spans from molecular biology to bioprocess engineering, enabling comprehensive solutions for biopharmaceutical production challenges. Professor Lee's research program centers on animal cell engineering for biopharmaceutical applications. His team utilizes synthetic biology approaches including artificial promoters and transcriptional regulation to develop improved mammalian cell lines. A major focus involves using CRISPR/Cas9 technology and site-specific gene integration to construct cell libraries for discovering novel engineering targets. Additional research areas include cell line development platforms, bioprocess optimization, apoptosis and autophagy studies in production cell lines, proteomic analysis of host cell proteins, and strategies for improving difficult-to-express protein production. Analysis of Professor Lee's recent publication record reveals a strong emphasis on genome editing technologies for cell line improvement, particularly using CRISPR-based screening methods in CHO and HEK293 cells. His work bridges fundamental molecular mechanisms with practical bioprocess applications, demonstrating consistent innovation in enhancing productivity while maintaining product quality in therapeutic protein manufacturing. The research shows increasing sophistication in systems-level approaches to cell engineering. Professor Lee actively mentors researchers in the Animal Cell Engineering Lab, guiding projects that address critical challenges in biopharmaceutical production. His research is supported by various funding sources focused on advancing cell engineering technologies for therapeutic applications. The Animal Cell Engineering Lab maintains state-of-the-art facilities for mammalian cell culture, genetic engineering, and bioprocess development. The lab collaborates extensively with both academic and industry partners to translate basic research findings into practical applications for the biopharmaceutical industry, contributing significantly to advancements in therapeutic protein and viral vector manufacturing.

Joel RothmanView profile

Professor

• Developmental Biology
• Cell Biology
• Genetics
• +5 more

Joel Rothman is a Distinguished Professor and Wilcox Family Chair in Biotechnology in the Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology at the University of California, Santa Barbara. He also serves as Director of the Biomolecular Science and Engineering Program and is a member of the Neuroscience Research Institute. Rothman's research focuses on developmental plasticity and resilience using Caenorhabditis elegans and tardigrades as model organisms. His educational background includes a B.S. from the University of California, Davis (1978), followed by work as Winemaster at Buena Vista Winery until 1983, and a Ph.D. from the University of Oregon (1988). After postdoctoral work at the Medical Research Council in Cambridge, England, he was a faculty member at the University of Wisconsin, Madison (1991-96) before joining UCSB in 1996. Rothman's research explores the molecular genetic mechanisms controlling how cells acquire specific identities during animal development, with particular focus on developmental plasticity, cellular reprogramming, stem cell proliferation, apoptosis, left-right handedness determination, and mitochondrial genome maintenance. His lab applies advanced genetic, genomic, and cell biological tools to investigate these processes in C. elegans , while also collaborating on Project Starlight to study the effects of near light-speed travel on microscopic animals. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on developmental biology, with particular focus on gene regulatory networks, mitochondrial DNA quality control, stress response mechanisms, and evolutionary developmental biology. His work demonstrates how fundamental developmental processes are conserved across species and how they interact with aging pathways. Searle Scholars Award recipient Shaw Scientists Award recipient Member of Board of Trustees of Cancer Center of Santa Barbara Member of International C. elegans Meeting Organizing Committee Former Chair of NIH Molecular Genetics B Study Section Rothman has advised numerous graduate students including Paige Shukwit, Samantha Fiallo, and Pradeep Joshi. His lab collaborates with researchers across disciplines, including Philip Lubin in Physics (Project Starlight), Carl Meinhart in Mechanical Engineering, and Luke Theogarajan in Engineering. His research has been supported by multiple NIH grants including R01 HD081266, R01 GM143771, and R21 AG068915. The Rothman Lab maintains strong connections with the international scientific community, particularly in the field of C. elegans research, and continues to push boundaries with innovative projects like sending microscopic animals into interstellar space to understand biological responses to extreme environments.