Mikhail G. Shapiro is the Max Delbrück Professor of Chemical Engineering and Medical Engineering at the California Institute of Technology and an HHMI Investigator. He directs the Center for Molecular and Cellular Medicine at Caltech, focusing on developing molecular technologies for noninvasive imaging and control of cellular function. His research integrates molecular and cellular engineering with biophysical methods like ultrasound and magnetic resonance to image and manipulate biological processes in neuroscience, cancer, and synthetic biology. Key innovations include acoustic reporter genes, ultrasound-controlled gene circuits, and gas vesicle-based imaging agents. Dr. Shapiro's recent publications highlight advancements in ultrafast ultrasound imaging, acoustic microrobotics, and thermal control of cellular therapies. He applies these technologies to problems in brain-machine interfaces, tumor targeting, and microbiome engineering. HHMI Investigator (2021) Roger Tsien Award for Excellence in Chemical Biology (2021) Packard Fellowship (2018) Vilcek Foundation Prize (2018) Clauser Doctoral Prize (advised) NIH BRAIN Initiative Funding His lab collaborates with institutions including MIT, USC, and the Heritage Medical Research Institute. Students like Pradeep Ramesh, Dan Piraner, and Anupama Lakshmanan have received recognition for their work. Caltech's Center for Molecular and Cellular Medicine serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research under his leadership.
Anne M. Andrews is a Professor-in-Residence in the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences , School of Medicine at UCLA. Her research focuses on neurochemical sensing technologies at the interface of analytical chemistry, neuroscience, and nanotechnology. NIH R01DA045550 (2017-2022): Principal Investigator on Micro- to Nanoscale Neurochemical Sensors NIH R03MH086108 (2009-2012): Principal Investigator on Postnatal Antidepressant Effects NIH R03MH077978 (2007-2010): Principal Investigator on Serotonergic Regulation of BDNF NIH R01MH064756 (2001-2013): Principal Investigator on 5-HT Transmission in Disease Models Her work bridges Neurology , Chemistry , and Nanotechnology , with recent publications covering neurotransmitter monitoring , aptamer-FET biosensors , and chemical lift-off lithography . She develops tools for in vivo and implantable diagnostics , contributing to understanding brain chemistry in psychiatric contexts. Key collaborations include researchers at UCLA , USC , and UCSF . Her 2012 Science paper on subtractive patterning has been cited 41 times, while the 2018 Science publication on aptamer-FET sensors has 199 PMC citations.
Dr. Yajie Kevin Liang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. His research integrates advanced imaging technologies to investigate neurobiological processes, neural stem cell therapy, tumor heterogeneity, and in vivo molecular interactions. Education & Training: Baccalaureate in Medicine, Third Military Medical University, China (1998-2003) Ph.D. in Neurobiology, Third Military Medical University, China (2003-2009) Postdoc, Radiology, Johns Hopkins University (2010-2012) Postdoc, Institute of Physiology, Tuebingen University, Germany (2012-2015) Research Focus: Dr. Liang's laboratory employs intravital multiphoton microscopy to visualize biological processes in live animals. Key areas include: neural stem cell integration into neural networks, single-cell tracking of tumor behavior, and combining high-resolution imaging with light-triggered interventions for disease mechanism studies. Core methodologies involve fluorescent probe development, calcium imaging, and volumetric neural activity mapping. Publication Trends: Recent work emphasizes high-speed volumetric brain imaging, super-resolution techniques, and novel calcium indicators. Publications consistently appear in premier journals ( Nature Methods , Nature Neuroscience ), highlighting innovations in deep-brain microendoscopy, axon-specific activity measurement, and dynamic in vivo imaging. Awards & Honors: Young Investigator Award, NSF China (2009) IBRO Travel Fellowship & Best Presentation (2009) Outstanding Doctoral Thesis, Chongqing (2010) SMI/ASNTR Travel Fellowships (2011) Fortune Award, Tuebingen University (2013) Professional Affiliations: Society for Neuroscience (2017-2018), Society for Image Guided Neurointerventions (2019-present), BioImaging North America (2020-present).
Jin Zhang is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering at Western University's Faculty of Engineering. She leads the Laboratory for Multifunctional Nanocomposites (LMN) and maintains her office in Thompson Engineering Building, Room TEB 465. Dr. Zhang has established herself as a leading researcher in nanomaterials and nanobiotechnology with significant contributions to biosensors, theranostics, and nanomedicine applications. Her educational background includes a Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering from the National University of Singapore (2003), followed by an NSERC Visiting Fellowship at the National Research Council Canada (2003-2005) and an NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship in Molecular & Cellular Medicine at the University of Ottawa (2006-2007). Dr. Zhang's research focuses on the design, processing, surface modification, and characterization of nanocomposites for applications in environmental pollution control, food and beverage quality, and disease diagnosis. Her current work centers on developing advanced nanomaterials with enhanced chemical, magnetic, and optical properties across five main research directions: multifunctional nanocomposites processing & properties, theranostics, protein and chemical sensors, spintronics, and non-invasive detection systems. Her lab has pioneered novel laser-assisted fabrication techniques for hybrid nanocomposites and developed innovative biosensing platforms for non-invasive glucose monitoring and bacterial detection. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong trend toward translational research with clinical applications, particularly in developing non-invasive diagnostic tools for diabetes management, cancer detection, and ocular diseases. Her work increasingly integrates machine learning approaches with nanomaterial development and shows growing emphasis on overcoming biological barriers like the blood-brain barrier and endothelial barriers for improved drug delivery. Outstanding Mid-Career Achievement in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology in Ontario, NanoOntario (2017) Early Researcher Award, Ontario (2014) Honored on List of Women Innovators Making a Difference in Global Health (2012) Grand Challenges Canada-Canadian Rising Stars in Global Health (2011) Keynote speaker at the International Conference on Nanotechnology (2010) Dr. Zhang actively mentors a diverse group of students at all levels, from undergraduate researchers to postdoctoral fellows. Her lab has secured significant research funding through collaborations with the Ivey Eye Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western Nanofabrication Facility, Biotron, and the National Research Council Canada. Current projects focus on developing nanostructured biosensors for point-of-care diagnostics, advanced drug delivery systems, and antimicrobial coatings for medical devices. The Laboratory for Multifunctional Nanocomposites (LMN) maintains strong partnerships with clinical and research institutions to translate nanotechnology innovations into practical healthcare solutions. The lab's current research directions include developing non-invasive glucose monitoring through tear analysis, creating upconversion nanoparticles for enhanced imaging and drug delivery, and engineering nanomaterials for overcoming biological barriers in therapeutic applications.
David Berhanu is a Research Fellow and Clinical Neuroradiologist at the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Oxford. His institutional affiliations include: Neuroimaging and Neuroinflammation Research groups Diagnostic and Advisory Service for Neuromyelitis Optica Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Trials Unit Holding an MD and Postgraduate Diploma, he combines clinical expertise with research in neurological disorders. His work focuses on neuroinflammatory conditions through advanced imaging and clinical analysis. Dr. Berhanu's research centers on neuroimaging applications in autoimmune disorders, particularly Multiple Sclerosis and Neuromyelitis Optica. He investigates diagnostic techniques like optic nerve sheath ultrasonography, environmental impacts of smoking on disease progression, and patient information-seeking behaviors. His methodology emphasizes systematic reviews and meta-analyses to synthesize clinical evidence. His 2023 publications reveal a multidisciplinary approach spanning diagnostic innovation, patient-centered outcomes, and rare autoimmune conditions. This work demonstrates strong translational focus—converting clinical observations into evidence-based practices for neuroinflammatory disorders. As part of Oxford's Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Trials Unit, Dr. Berhanu accesses resources for active neuroimaging studies and clinical trials. While specific grants aren't listed, his role implies funding support for neuroimmunology research. He mentors through research group activities though formal student lists aren't public. He leads the Neuroimaging and Neuroinflammation Research groups, fostering collaboration between clinicians, imaging specialists, and neuroscientists. This environment enables integrated investigation of neurological disorders using advanced MRI techniques and clinical data analysis.
Matthew Weightman is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Wellcome Centre for Integrative Imaging (WIN) within the Plasticity Group , led by Professor Heidi Johansen-Berg at the University of Oxford. His research focuses on sensorimotor neuroscience with specific emphasis on sleep's role in post-stroke recovery and non-invasive brain stimulation techniques. At WIN, Dr. Weightman investigates how sleep quality impacts functional recovery after stroke, develops interventions like digital cognitive behavioral therapy (dCBT) to enhance sleep, and explores physiological processes during sleep that may boost motor skill consolidation. He also collaborates on projects identifying biomarkers for mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and maintains an interest in neurorehabilitation applications of non-invasive brain stimulation. His recent publications address sleep disturbances in stroke survivors, motor learning consolidation post-stroke, and digital CBT intervention protocols, alongside studies on Parkinson's disease impulse control behaviors. While no formal awards are listed, his work contributes to evolving rehabilitation strategies through interdisciplinary neuroscience approaches.
Professor Yifan Zhao (FHEA, SMIEEE) is a faculty member at the Centre for Life-cycle Engineering and Management , Cranfield University. His research spans Autonomous Systems, Digital Twinning, Human Factors, Sensor Technologies, and Through-life Engineering Services , integrating AI, computer vision, and signal processing to solve inverse problems in engineering and healthcare. Clients include Jaguar Land Rover, BAE Systems, and the NHS. Dr. Zhao received his PhD in Automatic Control and System Engineering from the University of Sheffield (2007), with MSc and BEng in Automatic Control Engineering from the Beijing Institute of Technology. His work focuses on data-driven solutions for decarbonisation, non-destructive testing, driver monitoring, and digital healthcare, supported by grants such as the Royal Academy of Engineering Industrial Fellowship and an Innovate UK £815K grant . Recent publications highlight his expertise in EEG signal processing , structural health monitoring , and trustworthy AI implementation , with applications in aerospace, construction, and neurodegenerative disease diagnosis. Scientific awards include recognition as a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and Senior Member of IEEE . Collaborations with industry leaders like Airbus and Thales, alongside supervision of research students (e.g., Isa Ismail, Yizhong Wang), underscore his impact. Key projects include TRAMS-Enterprise (Trustworthy AI for construction) and CogShift (driver-cognition control authority shifting for autonomous vehicles). His lab, part of Cranfield's Manufacturing and Materials theme, develops innovative NDT technologies and AI frameworks for real-world applications.
Rashi Mehta is a Professor at West Virginia University School of Medicine with multiple departmental affiliations including the Department of Neuroradiology, Department of Neuroscience, and the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute. She serves as Director of Cognitive Neuroimaging and maintains an active clinical practice in Neuroradiology and Radiology. Dr. Mehta's research focuses on Alzheimer's Disease, neuroimaging, and the application of focused ultrasound technology for blood-brain barrier opening in neurodegenerative conditions. Her work spans from basic investigations of central nervous system fluid networks to clinical applications of novel therapeutic approaches. She has made significant contributions to understanding arachnoid granulations and hydrophilic polymer embolism. Her recent publications demonstrate a strong emphasis on multimodal neuroimaging approaches to understand Alzheimer's Disease pathophysiology, with particular focus on cortical thickness, metabolic patterns, and cognitive correlates. She has been instrumental in advancing the use of focused ultrasound for therapeutic applications in neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Mehta's research program represents a unique intersection of clinical neuroradiology, cognitive neuroscience, and therapeutic innovation, with numerous publications in high-impact journals spanning from 2001 to the present. Alzheimer's Disease biomarkers and imaging Blood-brain barrier modulation Focused ultrasound therapeutics Neuroimaging of cognitive disorders Central nervous system fluid dynamics Arachnoid granulation pathology
Ana Carolina Gonçalves Seabra is a Researcher at the Institute of Microsystems Technology, University of Freiburg, affiliated with the Professorship for Biomedical Microtechnology since 2022. She is actively involved in the BrainLinks-BrainTools research center and the Bernstein Center Freiburg, focusing on intelligent machine-brain interfacing technologies. Her research spans biomedical microsystems with emphasis on: Ultrasound-based cardiovascular monitoring systems Wearable medical devices for blood pressure and vascular health In silico and in vitro validation of medical technologies Development of novel sensors for hemodynamic parameter extraction Her publications demonstrate consistent focus on non-invasive diagnostic technologies, particularly ultrasound innovations for vascular assessment. She actively advises graduate research, including supervision of Master's theses (e.g., "In vitro validation of ultrasound sensor systems for vascular age monitoring" in 2024) and Bachelor's theses (e.g., "Monitoring blood flow velocity by a noninvasive ultrasonic doppler system" in 2023). As part of research teams, she contributes to the Intelligent Machine-Brain Interfacing Technology group, developing translational biomedical devices bridging engineering and clinical applications.
Robin Tibor Schirrmeister is a researcher at the University of Freiburg's Faculty of Engineering, specializing in deep learning applications for brain-computer interfacing and neurotechnology. His work bridges engineering and medical domains through affiliations with BrainLinks-BrainTools, the Neurorobotics Lab, and the Department of Presurgical Epilepsy Diagnostics. His doctoral research (2024) focused on EEG signal decoding under advisors Frank Hutter and Tonio Ball. Key research areas include: Deep learning for EEG pathology classification Real-time brain-signal decoding systems Human-robot interaction via BCI Medical diagnostics using neural networks Publication trends since 2018 reveal consistent advancement in EEG decoding methodologies, with recent work (2024-2025) focusing on brain-age dynamics, small-data prediction models, and Riemannian geometry applications. His research demonstrates strong clinical translation potential, particularly in epilepsy diagnostics and assistive robotics. Award: 2018 Poster Prize for µECoG research Collaborative work spans multiple labs including BrainLinks-BrainTools and the Epilepsy Center, with significant contributions to clinical EEG dataset development and intracranial signal processing. Current projects focus on scaling behavior in EEG classification and brain-age modeling. Research infrastructure includes the Neurorobotics Lab for BCI-robot integration and the Epilepsy Center for clinical validation, enabling translational work from algorithm development to medical applications.
Dr. Anahita Deboo is a Professor of Neurology at Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University. Specializing in Neuromuscular Medicine and Clinical Neurophysiology , her clinical expertise includes diagnosis and management of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) , Motor Neuron Disease , Diabetic Polyneuropathy , and Myasthenia Gravis . EDUCATION & TRAINING MD from University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Fellowship in Neuromuscular/Clinical Neurophysiology at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania Residency in Neurology at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania RESEARCH FOCUS: Dr. Deboo's research spans ALS pathophysiology, cognitive changes in neurodegenerative diseases, and innovative neuroimaging techniques like fNIR and EEG impedance . She has contributed to multicenter ALS trials (QALS study group) and developed methodologies for non-invasive gastrointestinal transit time assessment in ALS patients. SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTIONS Co-authored 15+ peer-reviewed publications Key studies on ALSFRS-R reliability, caloric expenditure prediction models, and lidocaine treatment for myotonia Active participant in Northeast ALS Consortium (NEALS) HONORS Philadelphia magazine Top Doctors (2023-2025) AOA Honor Medical Society member PATIENT CARE: With 4.8+ satisfaction ratings (88 reviews), patients praise her thoroughness, clear communication, and compassionate approach to complex neurological conditions.
Gabriel Altit is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at McGill University's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. He serves as a Scientist at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC), where he is affiliated with both the Child Health and Human Development Program and the Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE). Dr. Altit is a neonatologist and pediatrician specializing in echocardiography, with particular expertise in neonatal hemodynamics and cardiovascular physiology. Education: MDCM from McGill University Pediatrics Residency at CHU Sainte-Justine, University of Montreal Neonatology Residency at CHU Sainte-Justine, University of Montreal Neonatal Echocardiography Research at Stanford University MSc in Epidemiology from McGill University (2017-2020) Dr. Altit's research primarily focuses on neonatal cardiovascular physiology, with special emphasis on how heart function impacts newborn health in various conditions. His work centers on the use of echocardiography for live evaluation of the heart, particularly in premature newborns and those with congenital heart or lung malformations. He has developed expertise in analyzing heart muscle deformation using specialized software. His research spans from the immediate post-natal period through pediatric and adolescent growth into adulthood, creating a continuum of care for high-risk patients. Analysis of Dr. Altit's recent publications reveals a strong focus on neonatal hemodynamics, particularly in high-risk populations including preterm infants, those with congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and congenital heart defects. His work demonstrates increasing sophistication in hemodynamic monitoring techniques, with growing emphasis on multimodal assessment including echocardiography, near-infrared spectroscopy, and advanced imaging. There is a clear trajectory toward translational research with clinical applications, particularly in optimizing management of pulmonary hypertension and improving outcomes in bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Dr. Altit founded and directs the NeoCardioLab (www.neocardiolab.com), an internationally recognized platform providing educational resources, a website, and mobile applications used daily by the global TnECHO community. He also launched and directs McGill's fellowship program in neonatal hemodynamics, the only Royal College-accredited program of its kind in Quebec. Professional Activities: Serves on the Fetus and Newborn Committee of the Canadian Paediatric Society Co-authors national position statements Acts as expert advisor to INESSS on neonatal hyperbilirubinemia Director of McGill's Royal College-accredited fellowship program in neonatal hemodynamics Dr. Altit's research has been supported by numerous organizations including the American Thoracic Society, the Pediatric Research Foundation, CIHR, the Grand défi Pierre Lavoie, and the Fondation Pour Enfants Seulement. His work has established him as a leader in neonatal cardiovascular research, with particular expertise in echocardiography and hemodynamic assessment of high-risk newborns. As principal investigator of the NeoCardio Lab, Dr. Altit leads a research team focused on clinical and epidemiological neonatal cardiovascular research. The lab's work includes developing resources for targeted neonatal echocardiography, congenital heart defects, fetal echocardiography, point-of-care ultrasound, and near-infrared spectroscopy. The lab has received equipment support from the Just For Kids Foundation, including a state-of-the-art echocardiography machine with 2D and 3D capabilities and advanced analysis software.
Karen Wilcox is a tenured Professor and Chair of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Utah School of Medicine , with an Adjunct Professor appointment in Biomedical Engineering. Her research focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of epileptogenesis, seizure generation, and anticonvulsant drug resistance. Principal Investigator of the Anticonvulsant Drug Development (ADD) Program Collaborates with NINDS/NIH on preclinical antiseizure drug testing Her laboratory employs electrophysiology, calcium imaging, pharmacology, and genetic models to investigate neuronal and glial dysfunction in epilepsy. She has directed NINDS-funded contract research since at least 2013. Research Trends: Recent publications highlight her work on: Viral-induced epilepsy models (e.g., Theiler’s virus) Machine learning applications in seizure classification Targeted drug delivery systems for antiseizure medications Neuroinflammation and microglial roles in epileptogenesis Development of preclinical platforms for Dravet syndrome EEG-based biomarkers for seizure propensity These studies reflect a multidisciplinary approach integrating neuroscience, pharmacology, and biomedical engineering to address treatment-resistant epilepsy and develop novel therapies. Students & Collaborations: While specific students are not named, her publications list numerous collaborators across pharmacology, neuroscience, and biomedical engineering disciplines. Labs & Teams: Leads the Wilcox Laboratory at the University of Utah, which operates within the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology. The lab collaborates with the Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program (ETSP) and NINDS.
Dr. Ana Rita Barreiros is a clinical psychologist and neuroscience researcher at the University of New South Wales, School of Medicine & Health. She specializes in treatment-resistant depression and interventional psychiatry, integrating advanced neuroimaging methods with clinical expertise to improve psychiatric treatment outcomes. Dr. Barreiros has extensive experience leading clinical trials and has worked across leading research institutions in Portugal and Australia. Her research interests focus on identifying MRI and EEG markers in mood disorders and schizophrenia, investigating neurostimulation, ketamine, and emerging psychedelic therapies. She currently leads the coordination and implementation of the CARE Network and RAFT-ECT Trial, and serves as the Sydney site principal investigator for the OptiTMS Trial. Dr. Barreiros contributes to several NHMRC, ARC, and industry-funded research projects and RCTs. Dr. Barreiros' research portfolio demonstrates significant contributions to understanding the neural networks underlying treatment-resistant depression, optimizing electroconvulsive therapy protocols, and advancing novel treatments for severe mood disorders. Her work spans clinical trials, neuroimaging studies, and the development of practical tools for clinical monitoring during psychiatric interventions. With qualifications including BPsych, MClinPsych, and PhD in neuroimaging, Dr. Barreiros has established herself as a key contributor to interventional psychiatry research in Australia and internationally. Her work bridges the gap between neuroscience research and clinical practice through the CARE Network collaboration.
Professor Keith Chee Y. Ooi is a globally recognized clinician-scientist holding a tenured position as Professor of Medicine in the Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health at the School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health. With over 160 journal publications (more than 50% as first or senior author) and over AUD$15 million in research funding secured, he has established Australia's first comprehensive CF Gastroenterology research program across the lifespan. His clinical expertise centers on cystic fibrosis-related gastroenterology and nutrition, as well as childhood pancreatic diseases, with particular focus on the gut microbiome, inflammation, and dietary impacts on disease progression. Professor Ooi's research interests span several interconnected domains: Gut microbiome and inflammation in chronic childhood diseases Dietary impacts on gut health and disease progression CF-related pancreatic diseases and pancreatitis Gut-lung and gut-brain axis interactions Novel diagnostic approaches for cystic fibrosis Technology-based medical education innovations His publication record reveals a strong trajectory of translational research, with recent work focusing on the gut-lung axis in cystic fibrosis (2023), international standards of care (2024), and the impact of CFTR modulators on gut microbiota (2018). The research demonstrates increasing sophistication in multi-system interactions, moving from single-organ studies to comprehensive understanding of how gut health affects distant organs, with particular emphasis on clinical applications. Professor Ooi's scientific recognition includes: World's Top 2% Scientists (Stanford/Elsevier) Fellow of the American Gastroenterology Association (2021) Named as 1 of 3 distinguished leaders in CF pancreas internationally (2023) Dean's Rising Star Award (UNSW Medicine, 2015) Dick Hamilton Award and Clinical Research Award (2010) As a mentor, Professor Ooi has supervised 5 postdoctoral fellows, 7 PhD students (5 as primary supervisor), 6 Honours students, and numerous medical trainees since 2015. His innovative approach extends to medical education where he co-founded PlayMed, a serious educational game platform, and VirtualDoc, the world's first VR game for pediatric resuscitation training. These technologies have been validated through randomized controlled trials and featured in major media outlets including The Australian. Professor Ooi leads the Cystic Fibrosis Clinic as co-Director and directs the Cystic Fibrosis-Gastroenterology and Pancreas Care Programs at Sydney Children's Hospital, maintaining an active clinical practice while advancing research in his field.
