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Premila P. Samuel RussellView profile

Assistant Professor

• Biochemistry
• Physical Chemistry
• Computational Chemistry
• +3 more

Premila P. Samuel Russell is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Saint Louis University (SLU), within the School of Science and Engineering. Her research focuses on computational modeling of human cell environments to study biomolecular dynamics and hidden states inaccessible via traditional experiments. She integrates in silico simulations with experimental assays for validation. Education: B.A. in Chemistry, Berea College, Kentucky, 2012 Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Rice University, Texas, 2017 Research Interests: Computational Chemistry: Developing atomistic models of cytoplasmic environments to simulate protein behavior. Biophysics: Exploring protein folding, misfolding, and interactions in cellular contexts. Protein Dynamics: Investigating enzyme choreography and metabolon formation through all-atom simulations. Drug Design: Analyzing hemoglobin structure for therapeutic applications like Voxelotor. Her recent work emphasizes 'cells-on-computers' simulations and high-throughput experimental assays, addressing limitations in spatial-temporal resolution of conventional methods. Awards: Cooley’s Anemia Foundation Research Fellowship (2023) D.E. Shaw Research Women’s Fellowship (2021) Rice University’s George J. Schroepfer Awards for Thesis and Research Excellence (2017–2018) Her lab (Premila Research Group) bridges computational and experimental approaches to advance understanding of biomolecular systems. Contact: premila.russell@slu.edu at Monsanto Hall, SLU.

John K. WalkerView profile

Associate Professor

• Medicinal Chemistry
• Synthetic Organic Chemistry
• Pharmacokinetics
• +3 more

John K. Walker is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Saint Louis University's School of Science and Engineering, with research affiliations in Pharmacology & Physiology. His work focuses on medicinal chemistry approaches to develop novel bioactive molecules targeting critical biological challenges. B.S. in Chemistry, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville (1990) M.S. in Chemistry, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville (1992) Ph.D. in Chemistry, Indiana University (1997) Research in the Walker Lab centers on medicinal chemistry , synthetic organic chemistry , and chemical biology , with particular emphasis on: Designing and synthesizing novel bioactive molecules Computational methods including molecular modeling and docking Bacterial efflux pump inhibitors to combat antibiotic resistance GPCR modulators for pain signaling pathways Development of tool compounds for biological studies Recent publications highlight his work in: Efflux pump inhibition mechanisms (2024-2025) Nuclear receptor agonist development (2024) GPCR signaling in pain pathways (2025) Antibiotic permeation modeling (2024) Metabolic disease therapeutics (2023-2024)

Robert BateyView profile

Professor

• Biological Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Organoboron Chemistry
• +7 more

Robert Batey is a Full Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Toronto, serving as Co-Director of the Acceleration Consortium's Medicinal Chemistry Self-Driving Lab (SDL) and former Chair of the Department (2013–2023). His research focuses on organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry, and applications in drug discovery, with a particular emphasis on organoboron chemistry and protease inhibitors. He holds a B.A. from Oxford University and a Ph.D. from Imperial College London. His work bridges synthetic methods, structural analysis, and computational science, including collaborations on machine learning-driven molecule design. Key research areas include: synthetic methods using organoboron compounds, combinatorial chemistry, hetero Diels-Alder reactions, and the development of small molecules targeting ClpP proteases and ubiquitin pathways. His group has synthesized natural products like himeic acid A, kitastatin, and martinelline, as well as novel antibiotics and PROTACs. Recent publications highlight advancements in AI-driven drug design (e.g., GFlowNets for molecular generation), structure-based antibiotics development, and PROTAC complex structure prediction. Awards include the CSC Merck-Frosst Award and multiple teaching/research accolades. Awards: CSC Merck-Frosst Award, Merck Academic Development Award, Bio-Méga/Boehringer Ingelheim Young Investigator Award, and teaching excellence recognition. Advising: Active mentorship of graduate students and postdocs in organic chemistry, with a focus on independent research and problem-solving. Labs: Located in Lash Miller Building (3rd floor), including North Lab (LM 371) and South Lab (LM 370).

Markus ValtinerView profile

Professor

• Corrosion Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Electrochemistry
• +4 more

Prof. Markus Valtiner is a Professor at TU Wien's Department of Applied Interface Physics, focusing on interfacial processes, corrosion science, and electrochemistry. His research combines experimental and theoretical approaches to study solid-liquid interfaces, surface chemistry, and material degradation mechanisms. He leads a team investigating high entropy alloys, passive film structures, and biomimetic membrane systems. Education: Dipl.-Ing. (Diplom-Ingenieur) in Engineering, Dr.techn. (Doctor of Engineering) from TU Wien. Research Interests: Corrosion mechanisms, electrochemical analysis, surface modification, and thin film characterization. His work spans applications in automotive materials, protective coatings, and biomedical systems. Recent Trends: Articles emphasize real-time visualization of ion dynamics, advanced surface analysis via LEIS and AFM, and sustainable material treatments. Studies on hydration layers and superlubrication highlight innovative solutions for friction reduction in confined spaces. Awards: None explicitly mentioned. Advising & Grants: Advised 19 thesis students (2018–2023) on topics like electrochemical functionalization, corrosion protection, and nanophotonic materials. Grant activities focus on interdisciplinary collaborations between physics, chemistry, and engineering. Labs & Teams: Leads the Network Lab at TU Wien, specializing in interfacial physics and advanced materials characterization using cutting-edge microscopy and spectroscopy techniques.

Ilja K. VoetsView profile

Professor

• Soft Matter Physics
• Polymer Science
• Colloidal Self-Assembly
• +6 more

Ilja K. Voets is a Full Professor at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, leading the Self-Organizing Soft Matter research group. She is also a Core member of the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS). Her academic journey began at Wageningen University & Research where she earned her PhD cum laude in 2008, followed by postdoctoral research at the Aldolphe Merkle Institute in Switzerland. Since 2011, she has been at TU/e, becoming a full professor in 2018. Her educational background includes Molecular Sciences at Wageningen University & Research, with a PhD focusing on micellisation in dilute aqueous solutions of oppositely charged double hydrophilic block copolymers. She was supervised by dr. Arie de Keizer and prof. Martien A. Cohen Stuart. Professor Voets leads an interdisciplinary team of chemists, physicists, biologists, and engineers studying self-assembly processes in biological soft matter. Her research focuses on colloidal self-organization, polymer assembly and folding, and protein biophysics, with particular interest in ice-binding proteins that help organisms survive in extreme cold environments. She investigates how to control intra- and intermolecular copolymer assembly to develop novel functional soft materials, artificial enzymes, and strategies to enhance colloidal stability. A key challenge in her work involves orchestrating colloidal self-assembly with remote cues such as light and temperature. Her recent publications reveal a strong focus on antifreeze proteins, colloidal assembly, and nanoparticle technology, with significant contributions to understanding ice-binding mechanisms and developing novel soft materials. The research demonstrates consistent high-impact output across prestigious journals including PNAS, Angewandte Chemie, and Biomacromolecules. Ambizione Award (2010) : Recognizing early-career research excellence DMS Science and Technology Award (2009) : For significant contributions to materials science ERC Consolidator Grant (2021) : Supporting advanced research in ice-binding protein-polymers Ice-binding protein-polymers project (2016) : Focused on control over ice growth in soft materials Innovative peptide system award (2019) : For novel drug targeting approaches Professor Voets supervises numerous research projects and students, teaching courses including Biological Physics, Physical Chemistry, and Experimental Soft Matter. Her research group is affiliated with the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven Polymer Laboratories, and the Gravity Program Functional Molecular Systems. Industry collaborations include DSM, Kemetyl, and Unilever, demonstrating the practical applications of her fundamental research. Her work contributes significantly to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to responsible consumption, climate action, and life below water.

Lon S. SchneiderView profile

Professor

• Alzheimer's Disease Research
• Dementia
• Psychiatry
• +5 more

Lon S. Schneider, MD, MS is Professor of Psychiatry & the Behavioral Sciences at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, where he holds the Della Martin Chair in Psychiatry and Neuroscience. He directs the USC California Alzheimer's Disease Center (funded by the California Department of Health Services), the Geriatric Studies Center, and co-directs the clinical core of the USC NIA Alzheimer's Disease Research Center. Dr. Schneider's research focuses on treatment development with novel metabolic and neuroregenerative compounds, outcomes assessment, and approaches to modeling, clinical trials methods and simulations, and in silico screening of medications for slowing Alzheimer's disease. His work spans Alzheimer's disease therapeutics, clinical trial methodology, neuropsychopharmacology, dementia prevention, and neurodegenerative biomarkers. His recent publications demonstrate expertise in amyloid and tau biomarkers, clinical trial design, agitation management in dementia, and cross-cultural studies of cognitive decline. Dr. Schneider serves as an associate editor or editorial board member for several publications and is a member of The Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, intervention, and care. His research has significantly influenced clinical practice and trial design in Alzheimer's disease. Woodward/White, Inc.: The Best Doctors in America, 1992-2009 Fellow of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association Dr. Schneider has mentored numerous researchers and clinicians in the field of geriatric psychiatry and Alzheimer's disease research. His work on the CitAD trial examining citalopram for agitation in Alzheimer's dementia represents one of the largest studies of its kind. He has contributed significantly to understanding the relationship between neuropsychiatric symptoms and functional decline in dementia, as well as developing novel measures for Alzheimer's disease prevention trials. His laboratory and clinical research programs focus on identifying biomarkers of disease progression, developing novel therapeutic approaches for Alzheimer's disease, and improving clinical trial methodology for neurodegenerative disorders. Dr. Schneider collaborates extensively with researchers across USC and internationally on multi-center clinical trials and observational studies of dementia.

Vladimir KatanaevView profile

Professor

• Wnt Signaling Pathway
• Cancer Biology
• GPCR Signaling Mechanisms
• +3 more

Prof. Vladimir Katanaev is a Full Professor at the University of Geneva's Faculty of Medicine, affiliated with the Department of Cellular Physiology and Metabolism and the Centre for Translational Research in Onco-haematology. His research focuses on oncogenic signaling pathways, particularly the Wnt signaling pathway's role in cancer and developmental biology. He combines fundamental and translational research to develop anti-cancer therapies, including Wnt inhibitors and novel drug candidates. His work also extends to G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling mechanisms and biomimetic nanocoatings inspired by biological structures. Educated at Krasnoyarsk and Moscow State Universities, he completed his PhD at the University of Fribourg (Switzerland) and a postdoc at Columbia University (USA). Key roles include leading a research group at the University of Konstanz (2005–2011) and joining the University of Lausanne as an associate professor before moving to UNIGE in 2018. His lab investigates Wnt pathway inhibitors, GNAO1-related encephalopathies, and synthetic applications of biological nanocoatings. Research highlights include identifying natural product-based anticancer agents, developing personalized therapies for genetic disorders, and exploring light-interacting nanomaterials. Collaborators include postdoctoral fellows and scientific collaborators like Jana Valnohova and Gonzalo Solis. His work bridges basic science and clinical translation, aiming to advance oncology and neurology treatments.

Henning UrlaubView profile

Professor

• Mass Spectrometry
• Proteomics
• Protein Interactions
• +7 more

Prof. Henning Urlaub is a Professor at the Faculty of Medicine at Georg August University Göttingen and Group Leader of the Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Group at the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences (formerly Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry). His roles include leading a research group focusing on proteomics and clinical biochemistry at the University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG). He holds dual affiliations in both academic and clinical research sectors. He earned his Ph.D. in biochemistry from the Free University of Berlin (1993–1996) and conducted postdoctoral research at institutions including the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (Berlin) and the Philipps University of Marburg. His career includes leadership roles since 2010 in both the Max Planck Institute and UMG. Research Interests : Dr. Urlaub’s work centers on modern mass spectrometry applications for analyzing proteins, post-translational modifications, and protein interactions. Key projects include: Quantitative analysis of synaptic proteins under stimulation Protein cross-linking studies in B cells and other systems Method development for protein-RNA/DNA interactions Structural elucidation of large complexes via CX-MS and cryo-EM His group operates as a core proteomics facility for the Max Planck Institute and collaborates with external institutions like the University Hospital Frankfurt. They also maintain a clinical proteomics branch at the UMG’s Institute for Clinical Chemistry. Collaborations & Infrastructure : The group provides proteomics services to researchers across disciplines, emphasizing translational and clinical applications. Their instrumentation includes advanced mass spectrometry platforms (e.g., ESI, MALDI) for high-throughput proteomic analysis.

Tobin SosnickView profile

Professor

• Protein Folding
• Biophysics
• Molecular Dynamics
• +5 more

Prof. Tobin Sosnick is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Chicago, affiliated with the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering and the Institute for Biophysical Dynamics. He holds a PhD in Applied Physics from Harvard University (1989) and a B.A. in Physics from UC San Diego. His research focuses on protein folding mechanisms, biophysical dynamics, and membrane protein behavior, employing advanced techniques like SAXS, HDX-MS, and molecular simulations. He leads the Graduate Program in Biophysical Sciences and has pioneered studies on disordered proteins and allosteric regulation. Notable contributions include elucidating the '70% Rule' for folding transition states and developing optogenetic tools for actin imaging. Recognized as a 2024 AAAS Fellow and contributor to the 2023 Lasker Award-winning AlphaFold project, his work bridges physics, chemistry, and biology. Affiliations: Chair, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Senior Fellow, Computation Institute; Founding Member, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics. Collaborations span structural biology, computational biophysics, and cellular engineering. Research Highlights: Protein Folding Dynamics: Transition state topology, cooperativity, and downhill folding. Disordered Proteins: Conformational ensembles, solvent effects, and phase separation. Molecular Tools: Optogenetic systems (e.g., LILAC) and HDX-MS for membrane protein analysis. Grants & Awards: 2024 AAAS Fellow, 2023 Lasker Award contributor, multiple NIH grants for protein dynamics research. His lab has produced over 200 peer-reviewed publications. Labs & Teams: The Sosnick Group integrates experimental and computational approaches, with ongoing projects on riboswitches, stress granule formation, and prestin electromotility mechanisms in hearing.

Genhong ChengView profile

Professor

• Virology
• Immunology
• Innate Immunity
• +4 more

Genhong Cheng is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics (MIMG) at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). His research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of host-pathogen interactions, particularly in viral infections such as Zika virus, SARS-CoV-2, and influenza. Dr. Cheng has made significant contributions to the field of innate immunity, especially in interferon signaling pathways and NF-kappaB regulation. Dr. Cheng's research interests span across virology, immunology, and molecular biology. He has extensively studied how viruses interact with host immune responses, with a particular focus on interferon signaling pathways. His work has revealed critical mechanisms by which viruses evade host defenses and how host cells mount effective antiviral responses. Key areas of investigation include: NF-kappaB signaling in immune responses Interferon-stimulated gene functions Host metabolic changes during viral infection Mechanisms of viral replication and evasion Development of broad-spectrum antiviral strategies Analysis of Dr. Cheng's recent publications reveals a strong focus on emerging viral threats, including SARS-CoV-2 and monkeypox virus. His research consistently explores how host metabolic pathways intersect with immune responses to viral infection. A notable theme is the identification of host factors that can be targeted for broad-spectrum antiviral therapies, particularly those involving lipid metabolism and interferon-stimulated genes. Recent work has emphasized translational applications of basic discoveries in viral pathogenesis. Dr. Cheng's laboratory has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of host-pathogen interactions at the molecular level. His team employs a multidisciplinary approach combining virology, immunology, molecular biology, and systems biology to unravel complex host-virus relationships. Current research directions include exploring novel antiviral strategies targeting host factors that are essential for viral replication.

• Cell Signaling
• Cancer Biology
• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• +3 more

Dr. Cathy Tournier is a Senior Lecturer in the Division of Cancer Sciences at the University of Manchester. Her research focuses on mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. She holds a PhD in Endocrinology and has held post-doctoral fellowships from institutions including the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the Lister Institute of Preventive Medicine. Education: BSc (Biochemistry), University of Montpellier, France (1990) MSc (Biochemistry), University of Montpellier, France (1991) PhD (Endocrinology and Cellular/Molecular Interactions), University of Paris XI, France (1996) Research Interests: Tournier’s laboratory investigates MAPK signaling pathways in cancer development and neurological disorders. Key topics include ERK5 and JNK signaling in cell survival, apoptosis, and inflammation-driven carcinogenesis. Collaborations include mouse model development for studying cancer progression and macrophage activation in tumors. Awards: She has received prestigious fellowships such as the Lister Institute Senior Research Fellowship (2001–2006) and Howard Hughes Medical Institute Research Associate (1998–2000). Teaching and Advising: Teaches Cell Signalling (BIOL31441) and supervises dissertation students. Active in undergraduate mentoring and project supervision. Labs/Teams: Her work aligns with research beacons like Dementia@Manchester and the Manchester Cancer Research Centre, focusing on translational signal transduction research.

Huaiying ZhangView profile

Assistant Professor

• Biomolecular Condensates
• Cancer Biology
• Cellular Functions
• +3 more

Huaiying Zhang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University, part of the Mellon College of Science. His research focuses on the role of biomolecular condensates in cellular functions and cancer progression, particularly investigating phase transitions in telomere maintenance and cancer cell immortality. He holds a Ph.D. from McGill University and completed postdoctoral research at Dartmouth College, Princeton University, and the University of Pennsylvania. Research interests include engineering synthetic organelles, developing optogenetic tools to manipulate phase separation in live cells, and targeting phase transitions for cancer therapy. His work bridges biophysics, cell biology, and synthetic biology to address fundamental questions in nuclear organization and disease mechanisms. Education: Ph.D., McGill University Postdoctoral Fellowships: Dartmouth College, Princeton University, University of Pennsylvania Publications highlight advances in understanding telomere clustering in cancer cells, nuclear body formation, and applications of phase separation in therapeutic strategies. Collaborative projects emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, combining experimental and theoretical methods. Lab activities focus on biomolecular condensates' material properties, their roles in genomic processes, and translational applications in cancer treatment. The lab actively seeks students and researchers interested in cellular biophysics and disease biology.

Vito FerroView profile

Professor

• Carbohydrate chemistry
• Glycoscience
• Drug design and development
• +1 more

Professor Vito Ferro specializes in synthetic carbohydrate chemistry and drug design at The University of Queensland's School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences. His pioneering work focuses on glycosaminoglycan mimetics for treating cancer, inflammation, viral infections, and lysosomal storage disorders. Key achievements include developing clinical-stage heparanase inhibitors like PI-88 and PG545. Research explores heparan sulfate-protein interactions, pharmacological chaperones for Sanfilippo syndrome, and novel synthetic routes to rare sugars. Current projects span antiviral heparinoids, antifungals, and radical approaches to L-sugar synthesis. Honors include: SCMB HDR Supervision Excellence Award (2023) Fellowship of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute SCMB Engagement Award (2014) Leads multidisciplinary collaborations across 16 countries and maintains extensive industry partnerships. Secured significant funding from NHMRC, ARC, and philanthropic organizations for translational drug discovery programs. Directs a research team advancing peptide therapeutics through innovative synthetic and analytical approaches.

Martin FergieView profile

Lecturer

• Machine Learning
• Computer Vision
• Medical Imaging
• +5 more

Martin Fergie is a Lecturer in Healthcare Sciences at the University of Manchester's Division of Informatics, Imaging & Data Sciences. His research focuses on applying machine learning and computer vision to medical imaging for disease outcome prediction, including breast cancer risk assessment via mammograms and multiplex immunofluorescence imaging for cancer outcomes. He holds a PhD in machine learning from the University of Manchester (2008–2012), followed by roles as CTO at DigitalBridge and CEO at Spotlight Pathology Ltd. He is actively involved in the InnovateUK ICURe program to reduce pathologists' workload through AI in digital pathology. Education: PhD in Machine Learning (University of Manchester, 2013), MSc/Molecular Pathology Teaching Role. Research interests include predictive modeling for disease outcomes, AI-driven pathology tools, and imaging biomarker development. Key projects include breast cancer risk prediction from mammograms and histology-based clinical outcome modeling for follicular lymphoma and head/neck cancers. Recent articles highlight advancements in AI for breast density assessment, extracellular matrix phenotyping, and H&E-to-multiplex immunohistochemistry translation. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and innovation. Awarded the 2023 Teaching Excellence Award (Highly Commended) for contributions to medical education. Collaborates on projects like the 'Developing targeted strategies for precision breast cancer prevention' initiative. External roles include Non-executive Director at VREvo Ltd and CEO at Spotlight Pathology Ltd. Associated with research platforms like Digital Futures and the Lydia Becker Institute.

Sonia Navas-MartinView profile

Professor

• Innate Immunity
• Neuroimmunology
• Neuroinflammation
• +8 more

Sonia Navas-Martin is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology & Immunology at Drexel University College of Medicine. She holds a PhD from Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (1997). Her research focuses on innate immunity mechanisms during viral infections and neurodegenerative diseases, with emphasis on CNS pathologies and cellular senescence. Education: PhD in Microbiology & Immunology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (1997) Research Interests: Dr. Navas-Martin investigates how innate immune pathways contribute to immunopathology in viral infections (e.g., coronaviruses), neuroinflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Her work combines molecular biology, immunology, and animal models to identify therapeutic targets. Key areas include: Microglial responses to viral pathogens Role of non-coding RNAs (e.g., miRNAs) in immune regulation Cellular senescence in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders Cross-talk between TLR signaling and viral replication Publications: Her recent work includes studies on SARS-CoV-2 antiviral strategies, microglial antiviral mechanisms, and HIV-HCV co-infection dynamics. The articles reflect a focus on innate immunity modulation, viral pathogenesis, and translational therapies. Awards: Curator, American Society for Microbiology’s COVID-19 Research Registry Grants & Mentorship: She oversees an NIH-funded neuroimmunology graduate position and mentors students in scientific excellence. Her lab is known for collaborative, open research environments fostering innovation. Labs & Teams: Active in the Institute for Molecular Medicine & Infectious Disease at Drexel, collaborating on coronavirus immunology and SARS-CoV-2 therapeutic development. Her research integrates virology, immunology, and neurobiology to address critical gaps in understanding viral CNS pathogenesis.