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Larry Abbott is the William Bloor Professor of Theoretical Neuroscience at Columbia University, with joint appointments in the Department of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics (within Biological Sciences) and the Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute. He serves as Co-Director of the Center for Theoretical Neuroscience and is a Senior Fellow at HHMI Janelia Farm. PhD in Physics (1977), Brandeis University His research focuses on computational and mathematical modeling of neurons and neural networks, emphasizing spike-timing-dependent plasticity, sensory encoding in olfaction, and dynamics of internally generated neural activity. He explores how chaotic neural activity is harnessed for motor output and how perception involves dynamic inference and synaptic plasticity. Recent publications highlight applications of recurrent neural networks, hierarchical control mechanisms, and sensory-motor integration. Collaborative work spans institutions like MIT, Hebrew University, and the Allen Institute for Brain Science. Awards include the NIH Director’s Pioneer Award and the Swartz Prize in Theoretical Neuroscience. NIH Director’s Pioneer Award (2004) Swartz Prize (2010) First Annual Prize in Mathematical Neuroscience (2013) Irving Institute Mentor of the Year (2013)

• Cognitive/Systems Neuroscience
• Computation and Theory
• Neurobiology of Learning and Memory
• +7 more

Dr. Jason Yi is an Assistant Professor of Neuroscience at Washington University School of Medicine (WashU Medicine). His research focuses on understanding the molecular pathways that shape nervous system development and function, with particular emphasis on autism spectrum disorders (ASD). He leads the Yi Lab, which investigates the role of the ubiquitin ligase UBE3A in the brain and its implications for neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr. Yi received his BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Dickinson College in 2001 and his PhD in Pharmacology from Duke University in 2009. His laboratory is broadly interested in the molecular pathways that shape nervous system development and function, with the ultimate goal of understanding how dysfunction in these pathways contributes to disease. The current focus is on autism spectrum disorders (ASD), using genetic information from human patients to guide in vitro and in vivo experiments employing biochemical, genetic manipulation, cell biological, and microscopy techniques. Dr. Yi's research has significant clinical implications, particularly in understanding how UBE3A dysfunction relates to both Angelman syndrome (caused by lack of UBE3A activity) and autism (caused by excessive UBE3A activity). His lab discovered that a single phosphorylation event in UBE3A turns off its ubiquitin ligase activity, and that mutations in this site are linked to autism. This work bridges disease genetics with a mechanistic understanding of ASD neurobiology and aims to define developmental timepoints for ASD onset. Dr. Yi's research has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards: Ruth K. Broad Biomedical Research Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship (2006) F32 Kirschstein National Research Service Award (2011) Christina Castellana Postdoctoral Fellowship (2011-2014) The University of North Carolina Postdoctoral Award for Research Excellence (2015) Bridge to Independence Award, The Simons Foundation (2017) NARSAD Young Investigator Award, Brain and Behavior Research Foundation (2018) Whitehall Foundation Research Grant (2018) Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Research Fellowship (2019) Dr. Yi's research program is supported by significant grant funding from organizations including The Simons Foundation, Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, and the Whitehall Foundation. His work bridges basic molecular neuroscience with clinical implications for neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly autism spectrum disorders. Through his research, Dr. Yi is contributing to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying ASD, which may ultimately lead to new therapeutic approaches and interventions. The Yi Lab maintains a collaborative research environment focused on cutting-edge neuroscience techniques. The lab combines molecular, cellular, and genetic approaches to study UBE3A function and its role in neurodevelopment. Their work utilizes patient-derived genetic information to guide experimental approaches, ensuring clinical relevance to autism spectrum disorders. Dr. Yi is also actively involved in mentoring graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, contributing to the training of the next generation of neuroscientists.

• Neuroscience
• Molecular Neuroscience
• Developmental Neuroscience
• +6 more

Vladimir Itskov is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics at The Pennsylvania State University, affiliated with the Eberly College of Science. His research focuses on theoretical neuroscience, applied algebraic topology, and neural networks. He holds a Ph.D. in Mathematics from the University of Minnesota (2002) and a B.S. from Moscow Institute of Electronics and Mathematics (1995). His career includes roles at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2009–2014), Columbia University’s Center for Theoretical Neuroscience (2006–2009), and Rutgers University (2004–2006). Research interests include understanding neural coding, network dynamics, and topological methods in neuroscience. Notable work involves applying algebraic topology to analyze neural correlations and developing models for neural network behavior. He has received grants from NIH, NSF, and DARPA, focusing on projects like olfactory coding and neural network dynamics. His lab, the Mathematical Neuroscience Laboratory, develops computational tools and collaborates on interdisciplinary projects. Software packages are hosted on GitHub (nebneuron repository). Publications span journals such as PNAS, SIAM, and Neural Computation, addressing topics from clique topology to competitive network dynamics. His theoretical contributions emphasize bridging data-driven neuroscience with mathematical rigor.

• theoretical neuroscience
• applied algebraic topology
• neural networks
• +3 more

Nabil Imam is an Assistant Professor at the School of Computational Science and Engineering within the College of Computing at Georgia Institute of Technology. He holds a Ph.D. in electrical engineering and neuroscience from Cornell University, advised by Rajit Manohar and Barbara Finlay. Prior to academia, he conducted research at IBM and Intel Labs, focusing on neuromorphic engineering and AI. His current research integrates computational neuroscience, probability theory, and control systems to model biological computation, with an emphasis on process algebras for asynchronous circuits and systems. Education: Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and Neuroscience, Cornell University (Advisors: Rajit Manohar, Barbara Finlay) Research interests include computational neuroscience, parallel computing, probabilistic methods, and neuromorphic systems. His work bridges biological neural mechanisms with technological applications, such as neuromorphic olfactory circuits and cortical development models. Notable contributions include neuromorphic chips featured in Science and Nature . His publications highlight interdisciplinary trends in neural coding, neuromorphic hardware, and evolutionary neuroscience. Recent work explores dual computational systems in mammalian brain evolution and self-organizing cortical structures. Earlier projects include scalable spiking-neuron integrated circuits (Science, 2014) and neurosynaptic cores with event-driven architectures (Best Paper Award, 2012). Awards: Best Paper Award at IEEE International Symposium on Asynchronous Circuits and Systems (2012) Teaching includes CSE 8803: Computational Methods for Complex Systems. His lab investigates process algebra frameworks for asynchronous systems and biological computation principles. Collaborations span industry (IBM, Intel) and academic institutions. Future directions emphasize theoretical neuroscience and neuromorphic technology applications.

• Computational Neuroscience
• Parallel Computing
• Probabilistic Methods
• +3 more

Dr. Junfang Wu is a Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology and holds a secondary appointment in Neurobiology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. She serves as Associate Director of UM-MIND (University of Maryland - Medicine Institute for Neuroscience Discovery), Director of the Anesthesiology Center for Neuroscience Research, and Vice-Chair for Translational Research in the Department of Anesthesiology. Her academic journey includes a BM in Medicine, MS in Pharmacology from Jiangxi Medical College, and PhD in Neuropharmacology from Nanjing Medical University, followed by postdoctoral training at China's Institute of Materia Medica and NIH. Research Focus: Neurotrauma, neuroinflammation, autophagy-lysosomal pathway, extracellular vesicles, Hv1/NOX2/ROS, TrkB.T1 Key Techniques: Rodent models of SCI/TBI, behavioral evaluations, EV characterization, quantitative imaging, molecular/cellular biology Dr. Wu's research explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurological dysfunction following CNS trauma, with emphasis on autophagy-lysosomal disruption, microglial Hv1 channels, and EV-mediated neuroinflammatory signaling. Her 2025 Aging and disease study reveals age-dependent transcriptional changes post-anesthesia, while 2024 Brain, Behavior, and Immunity work demonstrates how SCI alters EV cargoes to drive brain neuroinflammation. Her team recently discovered that Hv1 proton channel ablation in microglia provides neuroprotection in SCI models. Her scientific contributions are recognized through the 2025 Matjasko Professorship in Anesthesiology Research. She has secured multiple NIH grants including: R01 NS145443 (2025-2030): cGAS signaling in brain trauma-induced neuroinflammation R01 AG077541 (2022-2027): TBI olfactory dysfunction and dementia progression 2RF1 NS094527 (2016-2027): Autophagy mechanisms in SCI R01 NS110825 (2020-2026): Hv1 channel in SCI/TBI Dr. Wu's laboratory personnel include Research Associates Yun Li and Zhuofan Lei, Post-doctoral Fellows Balaji Krishnamachary and Zihui Wang, Research Assistant Hui Li, and medical student Ruth Park. Her work spans from bench research on lysosomal damage to clinical implications for Alzheimer's disease-related dementia (AD/ADRD) and potential therapeutic strategies.

• Neurotrauma
• Neuropharmacology
• Neuroinflammation
• +7 more

Alexei Koulakov is a Professor at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) and the Charles Robertson Professor of Neuroscience. His research focuses on applying mathematical and computational approaches to unravel the principles of brain organization, particularly in sensory systems like olfaction and vision. Koulakov's work explores how neural circuits form during development, the role of genetic and experiential factors, and the evolutionary basis of brain architecture. Education: PhD in Physics from the University of Minnesota (1998). Key Research Areas: Olfactory system development, neural network modeling, and AI inspired by biological computation. Koulakov's recent publications emphasize cross-disciplinary integration of neuroscience and AI, including NeuroAI initiatives and DeepNose models predicting olfactory percepts. His team investigates how innate abilities are encoded genomically and how experience shapes neural networks. Scientific contributions include studies on primacy coding in olfaction, stochastic learning mechanisms , and high-throughput neural mapping . Awards include the Charles Robertson Professorship , reflecting his leadership in theoretical neuroscience. Koulakov collaborates extensively, with notable work on genomic bottlenecks , odor mixture interactions , and neural integrator models . His lab at CSHL is at the forefront of NeuroAI research, leveraging brain circuit insights to advance artificial intelligence.

• Neuroscience
• Theoretical Neurobiology
• Applied Mathematics
• +5 more

Dr. Elisenda Bueichekú serves as a Research Scientist at the Yale School of Medicine within the Radiology & Biomedical Imaging Department . Her work focuses on neuroimaging applications in neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer’s disease progression and memory systems analysis. She collaborates with leading researchers in the Mental Health PET Radioligand Development (MHPRD) Program and the PET Core facility. Primary Affiliation: Yale School of Medicine Department: Radiology & Biomedical Imaging Research Programs: MHPRD Program, PET Core Her research integrates multimodal neuroimaging techniques to investigate: Tau pathology propagation patterns Connectome-based disease modeling Cortical hub analysis in memory systems Cognitive resilience mechanisms Neuroimaging of anosognosia Functional network contributions to creativity Dr. Bueichekú contributes to translational research through: Advanced PET/MRI methodologies Spatiotemporal disease progression mapping Development of imaging-based biomarkers Recent publications demonstrate expertise in: Alzheimer’s disease neuroimaging Tau and amyloid co-accumulation Functional connectivity analysis Memory system characterization Scientific contributions include: 2025 Center for Brain & Mind Health Pilot Grant Key publications in top-tier journals (Nature Aging, Alzheimer's & Dementia, etc.)

• Neuroimaging
• Alzheimer's Disease
• Neurodegenerative Disorders
• +5 more

Dana Small, PhD is a Senior Scientist at the RI-MUHC and Professor in the Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery at McGill University . Her research is centered in the Metabolic Disorders and Complications Program within the Centre for Translational Biology . Her research focuses on understanding how body and mind work together to optimize behavior, particularly through neuroimaging, metabolic, and behavioral studies of ingestive behavior. She investigates how modern food environments affect brain evolution and eating behavior. The 15 most recent publications show a consistent focus on food reward mechanisms (2025), nutrient-brain interactions (2024), addiction-genetics relationships (2023), and neural processing of taste and reward (2020-2023). These works appear in high-impact journals like Cell Metabolism and Science .

• Neuroimaging
• Obesity
• Ingestive behavior
• +4 more

Sophie Caron is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Utah, where she leads a research laboratory investigating fundamental mechanisms of brain function using Drosophila melanogaster as a model system. Her work focuses on how the brain generates internal representations of the external world, stores memories, and translates these into behavior through multisensory integration. Education: B.S. from Université de Montréal Ph.D. from New York University Dr. Caron's research centers on the Drosophila mushroom body—a critical brain center for learning and memory—with emphasis on multisensory integration mechanisms. Her lab investigates how the brain combines information from multiple sensory modalities (olfaction, vision, etc.) to form unified percepts, challenging traditional views of sensory processing. Key discoveries include the demonstration that mushroom body connectivity follows near-random patterns that maximize memory capacity, and the identification of cross-modal sensory pathways beyond olfaction. Current work explores evolutionary adaptations in neural circuits across Drosophila species and developmental mechanisms establishing sensory wiring. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2019-2024) reveals three dominant research trajectories: (1) high-resolution mapping of Kenyon cell inputs using advanced techniques like dye electroporation, (2) computational modeling of how connectivity patterns shape sensory representation and learning, and (3) evolutionary studies of circuit architecture across Drosophila species. Her work consistently bridges experimental neuroanatomy with theoretical frameworks, emphasizing the interplay between random and structured wiring principles in neural circuit design. Scientific Awards: NSF CAREER Award (2021) for research on brain size evolution and neuronal circuit adaptation Dr. Caron mentors graduate students in the University of Utah's Molecular Biology Program and directs an active laboratory utilizing genetic, imaging, and behavioral approaches. Her research program is supported by competitive grants including the NSF CAREER award, with collaborations spanning neuroscience and evolutionary biology. Current projects investigate multisensory integration mechanisms, evolutionary drivers of neural circuit specialization, and developmental basis of sensory wiring. The Caron Lab maintains specialized facilities for Drosophila neurogenetics, advanced microscopy, and behavioral analysis. Her team collaborates with the University of Utah's Brain Institute and Center for Cell and Genome Science, contributing to interdisciplinary initiatives in neural circuit mapping and evolutionary neuroscience. Ongoing work explores how sensory representations evolve in response to ecological pressures and how circuit architecture enables flexible behavior in complex environments.

• Neuroscience
• Neurobiology
• Sensory Systems
• +5 more

Richard Axel is a University Professor at Columbia University, holding appointments in the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons as Professor of Neuroscience, Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, and Professor of Pathology and Cellular Biology. He serves as Codirector of Columbia's Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and is an Investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute since 1984. Dr. Axel earned his AB from Columbia College and MD from Johns Hopkins Medical School. His Nobel Prize-winning research identified over 1,000 odorant receptors in the nose that transmit olfactory information to the brain, revolutionizing our understanding of the sense of smell. His early work with colleagues developed groundbreaking gene transfer techniques that enabled the introduction of virtually any gene into any cell, leading to novel approaches for gene isolation and analysis of gene function. Dr. Axel's research focuses on understanding how olfactory information is processed in the brain to create internal representations of the external world. His work spans molecular neuroscience, neural circuitry, and the relationship between sensory input and behavioral output. He has pioneered techniques that have advanced our understanding of neural function and sensory processing mechanisms. Analysis of Dr. Axel's recent publications reveals a continued focus on olfactory processing systems, with increasing integration of computational approaches and machine learning to understand neural representations. His work spans from molecular mechanisms to circuit-level analyses, with particular emphasis on how odor information is encoded and transformed in the brain to produce meaningful perceptions and behaviors across multiple model systems. Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (2004) Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator (1984-Present) The Royal Society Foreign Member (2014) Gairdner Foundation International Award (2003) American Philosophical Society Member (2003) National Academy of Sciences Member (1983) Richard Lounsbery Award (1989) American Association for the Advancement of Science Fellow (2018) American Academy of Arts and Sciences Fellow As Codirector of the Zuckerman Institute, Dr. Axel oversees one of the world's leading neuroscience research centers, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across multiple departments. His lab continues to train the next generation of neuroscientists, investigating how sensory information is transformed into meaningful perceptions and behaviors. Dr. Axel's early work on gene transfer techniques laid the foundation for numerous advances in molecular biology and neuroscience, including the isolation and analysis of the CD4 gene, the cellular receptor for HIV. Dr. Axel leads the Axel Lab at Columbia University, which is part of the Zuckerman Institute. His research team investigates how organisms recognize olfactory information in the environment and transmit it to the brain, where it is processed to create internal representations of the external world. The lab employs multidisciplinary approaches combining molecular, cellular, and systems neuroscience to unravel the neural circuits underlying sensory processing and behavior, with particular focus on understanding how these representations translate stimulus features into appropriate innate and learned behaviors.

• Olfaction
• Neural representations
• Molecular neuroscience
• +3 more

Dr. Lorenz Fenk is a Max Planck Research Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence , leading the Neural Dynamics and Evolution department. His research focuses on neural systems function, natural behavior, and evolutionary neuroscience. Education: PhD in Neurobiology/Genetics (2016), University of Cambridge, UK Diploma (Mag. rer. nat.) in Biology/Anthropology (2010), University of Vienna, Austria His work combines quantitative methods and modern tools to study unconventional model systems like reptiles. Research themes include: Mechanisms of neural circuit dynamics during sleep Interhemispheric competition in reptiles Evolutionary aspects of sleep and cognition Internal brain activity and its link to memory/perception Recent publications demonstrate interdisciplinary trends in sleep research, neural computation, and evolutionary biology. Studies span vertebrate ultradian rhythms, reptilian brainstem circuits, and environmental modulation of behavior in Caenorhabditis elegans . Dr. Fenk's current affiliation is with the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, where he employs molecular, neurophysiological, and computational approaches to unravel cognitive processes and flexible behavior.

• Behaviour
• Biophysics
• Circuits
• +5 more

Matthew A. Reidenbach is a Professor and Department Chair of Environmental Sciences at the University of Virginia, with a courtesy appointment in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. His research focuses on coastal oceanography, particularly the interplay between hydrodynamics and marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and oyster reefs. He investigates topics such as larval transport, wave dynamics, and nature-based coastal resilience strategies. His work emphasizes ecological engineering solutions for climate change adaptation, combining field observations with computational modeling. Reidenbach holds a Ph.D. (2004) and M.S. (1998) in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Stanford University, and a B.S. (1997) from Cornell University. He has received prestigious awards including the NSF Career Award and the University of Virginia’s All-University Teaching Award. His research group utilizes advanced techniques like LiDAR remote sensing, PIV flow visualization, and eddy covariance systems to study coastal processes. Key research themes include: 1) Biophysical interactions in marine ecosystems (e.g., mussel aggregations, sponge filtration); 2) Coastal protection via living breakwaters; 3) Ecosystem metabolism and nutrient cycling in tidal systems. He collaborates with engineers and ecologists to bridge theoretical and applied science, addressing real-world challenges like sea-level rise and habitat restoration. Notable grants: NSF CAREER award, collaborative NSF projects on biophysical feedbacks Labs: Coastal Ecosystem Dynamics Lab, affiliated with UVA’s Batten Institute for Climate Theory and Practice Public engagement: Advises on oyster reef restoration strategies for Chesapeake Bay and Gulf Coast communities

• Coastal Oceanography
• Marine Ecosystem Dynamics
• Hydrodynamics
• +5 more

Ashley Moseman serves as an Assistant Professor of Integrative Immunobiology and Assistant Professor of Cell Biology at Duke University School of Medicine. She holds significant affiliations as a Faculty Network Member of the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences and a Member of the Duke Cancer Institute. Her pioneering research examines the delicate balance between neuronal function and immune protection at the olfactory neuroepithelial barrier, where sensory neurons directly interface with the external environment while protecting the central nervous system from pathogens. Dr. Moseman completed her Ph.D. at Harvard University in 2011, establishing the foundation for her interdisciplinary career at the intersection of immunology and neuroscience. Her research program focuses on understanding how immunological surveillance operates at the unique olfactory barrier, where neurons must contact the external environment to perform chemosensory functions while preventing pathogens from entering the CNS. The Moseman Lab employs cutting-edge multiphoton intravital imaging to visualize immune responses in vivo, revealing dynamic cellular interactions during viral infections and responses to pathogens like Naegleria fowleri. Current projects investigate olfactory barrier mechanisms, neuroimmune crosstalk, host-pathogen dynamics, and immune responses to deadly neurotropic pathogens. Analysis of Dr. Moseman's publication record demonstrates a cohesive research trajectory centered on neuroimmunology and mucosal defense mechanisms. Her work spans fundamental immunological processes, host-pathogen interactions at neural interfaces, and translational applications for understanding neurological complications of infections. A significant portion of her recent research addresses SARS-CoV-2-related olfactory dysfunction and the immunological basis of pathogen invasion through the olfactory system into the central nervous system. Dr. Moseman has secured substantial research funding including 'Using tissue-specific Naegleria opportunism to dissect olfactory immunity' (2025-2030), 'Characterizing olfactory plasma cell dynamics and survival niche within the upper airway' (2024-2029), and the 'Advanced Immunobiology Training Program for Surgeons' (2019-2029). She actively contributes to graduate education through the Medical Scientist Training Program (2022-2027) and teaches advanced immunology courses including IMMUNOL 736 and IMMUNOL 494. The Moseman Lab represents a leading center for neuroimmunology research, utilizing in vivo imaging to visualize immune responses within the central nervous system. Their work has significant implications for understanding how pathogens breach neurological barriers and how the immune system protects the brain while preserving essential sensory functions, with potential applications for treating neurological infections and inflammatory conditions.

• CNS immunity
• Olfactory barrier immunology
• Neuroimmunology
• +5 more

Arnaud Bertsch is a Lecturer at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) within the School of Engineering (STI) and the Department of Microengineering (IEM). He is affiliated with the Microsystems Laboratory 1 (LMIS1) and has been actively involved in teaching advanced microfabrication techniques and MEMS sensor/actuator practicals. His research spans microfluidics, nanofluidics, biomedical devices, and 3D microfabrication, with a focus on neural probes, drug delivery systems, and cell manipulation technologies. Microfluidic hydrodynamic and dielectrophoretic systems Nanovolcano microelectrode arrays for electrophysiology Thermal control of ionic transport in nanochannels 3D lipid microrobots for drug delivery MEMS-based intraocular pressure sensors Arnaud Bertsch has supervised PhD students including Torres Vila Pol, Zhang Tao, and past advisees like Clémentine Lipp, Nicolas Maïno, and Joan Teixidor. His work bridges fundamental research in nanofluidics with applied biomedical solutions, contributing to fields such as neuroscience, cancer therapy, and implantable medical devices. The articles listed demonstrate expertise in microsystem design, electrochemical sensing, and biofabrication technologies.

• Microfluidics
• Nanofluidics
• MEMS/NEMS
• +5 more

Gabriel Koch Ocker is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics & Statistics at Boston University, specializing in theoretical and computational neuroscience. His research investigates how neural activity encodes sensory information, shapes behavior, and evolves through learning mechanisms. Research Focus: Structure-function relationships in neuronal networks Methodology: Dynamical systems, stochastic processes, statistical physics Collaborations: Experimental validation of computational models Recent publications analyze integrate-and-fire networks, dendritic calcium spiking, inhibition-stabilized circuits, and metastability in stochastic neuronal systems. His group combines mathematical rigor with biological relevance to explore neural coding, plasticity, and functional hierarchy in cortical structures. Key contributions include tensor decomposition approaches to correlation analysis, reconciling recording technique discrepancies, and developing field-theoretic frameworks for compartmental modeling. Work spans from molecular-level channel dynamics (Kv7 channels) to brain-area-level functional organization.

• Theoretical Neuroscience
• Computational Neuroscience
• Neuronal Network Modeling
• +5 more