Peter Verwilst is an Associate Professor at the Medicinal Chemistry division of the Rega Institute for Medical Research , part of KU Leuven 's Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences. He leads projects in allosteric modulation of enzyme targets , fluorescent markers for neurodegenerative diseases , and novel antimicrobial development , particularly focusing on Gram-negative bacteria and HIV-related therapies. His research integrates computational modeling , chemical synthesis , and fluorescent probe design . He supervises PhD students including Margaux Billen , Eline Goffin , and Radu Bulai , and collaborates with institutions like Masaryk University and the Institut Pasteur de Lille. Current projects explore CCR5 signaling modulators , PurK inhibitors , and DNA-Encoded Libraries for P. aeruginosa antibiotics. Scientific awards include supporting students like Radu Bulai in obtaining FWO PhD Fellowships . His teaching includes Organische chemie I & II and Medicinale chemie courses. The lab recently celebrated securing a C1 grant and welcomes international collaborations.
Yann Ponty is a tenured CNRS Researcher at the Computer Science Department (LIX) of École Polytechnique (Institut Polytechnique de Paris, France). He leads the AMIBio team and serves as Deputy Director of LIX. His work focuses on developing bioinformatics methods at the intersection of computer science, mathematics, and molecular biology, particularly for RNA structure prediction, design, and evolution. He holds leadership roles in the ISCB Board of Directors (2025-2027) and the HDR referent for the IDIA department (CS&Interactions) at IP Paris. Research Interests: RNA folding/design/evolution, RNA-RNA/RNA-protein interactions, random generation, enumerative combinatorics, discrete algorithms, parameterized complexity, RNA visualization Key Contributions: Developed algorithms for RNA inverse folding, pseudoknot modeling, and dynamic programming optimization Collaborations: Partnerships with institutions like Simon Fraser University, Boston College, and Université Paris-Saclay His recent publications (15 most recent) span RNA structure prediction, pseudoknot partition functions, linear-time inverse folding algorithms, and parameterized sampling techniques. The work emphasizes dynamic programming, combinatorial approaches, and integration of experimental data for improving RNA modeling. Scientific awards include election to the ISCB Board of Directors (2025-2027) and leadership roles in academic networks like GdR BIM. He actively contributes to software development (VARNA, RNANR, SPARCS, IncaRNAtion, RNARedPrint) and serves as Associate Editor for Bioinformatics (OUP). Teaching engagements include graduate-level courses in combinatorial optimization, RNA bioinformatics, and algorithms at Université Paris-Saclay and École Polytechnique.
Ian J. Mohr, PhD is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. His research focuses on post-transcriptional control of gene expression during virus infection, intersecting virology, RNA biology, and genome integrity. Education PhD in Molecular Biology from Stony Brook University Postdoctoral Training at University of California, Berkeley (Molecular and Cell Biology) Research Interests Mohr's lab investigates how physiological stress and viral infections dysregulate translational control, RNA metabolism, and gene expression. Key areas include: RNA modifications (e.g., m6A) in viral replication Translational control during viral infection Host antiviral responses targeting mRNA decay Stress signaling in virus-infected cells Herpesvirus latency and reactivation Recent Trends in Research Mohr's recent publications emphasize RNA modifications and translational regulation in herpesvirus infections, particularly HCMV and HSV-1. His work explores: Epitranscriptomic mechanisms in viral RNA accumulation Integration of stress response pathways with viral replication Computational approaches for RNA modification detection Role of nuclear body assembly in viral pathogenesis Laboratory Mohr leads the Mohr Lab at NYU Langone's virology research group. His lab collaborates extensively with other virology and RNA biology teams, particularly with Associate Professor Angus C. Wilson's lab, with which he has co-mentored trainees and secured joint grants.
Tyler Bold, MD, PhD serves as Associate Professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine within the Department of Medicine at the University of Minnesota Medical School. He concurrently holds faculty appointments in the Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology (MICaB) Ph.D. Graduate Program and the Department of Medicine, establishing a multidisciplinary research presence spanning infectious disease pathogenesis, immunology, and host-pathogen interactions. His research program integrates clinical infectious disease expertise with fundamental immunological investigation, focusing on tuberculosis host-directed immunotherapy, SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis mechanisms, and macrophage biology in atherosclerosis. Key interests include T cell costimulation in granulomatous diseases, viral-microbiome interactions during respiratory infections, and diagnostic innovations for resource-limited settings. His work bridges basic science discovery with translational clinical applications, particularly in immunocompromised populations and complex infectious syndromes. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals dominant research trajectories in tuberculosis immunology (40% of articles), SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and therapeutics (35%), and atherosclerosis immunometabolism (15%), with emerging work on fungal infections in hematologic malignancies. The publications demonstrate consistent use of advanced techniques including single-cell resolution analysis, structural biology, and randomized clinical trials, reflecting both mechanistic depth and clinical relevance across infectious disease subspecialties.
Shelley L. Berger is the Daniel S. Och University Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, holding a "Penn Integrates Knowledge" Presidential Appointment. She serves as Director of the Epigenetics Institute at the Perelman School of Medicine and is Co-Director of the Tumor Biology Program at the Abramson Cancer Center. Her academic appointments span multiple departments including Cell and Developmental Biology, Biology, and Genetics. Dr. Berger earned her B.S. in Biology from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in 1982, followed by a Ph.D. in Cell & Molecular Biology from the same institution in 1987. Her distinguished career has led to her current position as a University Professor, one of the highest academic honors at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Berger's research focuses on epigenetics and chromatin structure/function in genomic regulation, with particular interest in post-translational modifications of histones and transcription factors. Her laboratory investigates how DNA-packaging structures are manipulated during genomic processes, with applications to understanding cancer, neurodegeneration, and other diseases. Her work spans multiple biological contexts including: Chromatin regulation of transcription Neuroepigenetics and memory formation Behavioral epigenetics in social insects Chromatin regulation in aging and senescence Cancer epigenetics and tumor suppressor mechanisms Analysis of Dr. Berger's recent publications reveals a strong focus on the intersection of epigenetics with aging, cancer, and neurobiology. Her work demonstrates how histone modifications and chromatin remodeling influence cellular senescence, with implications for age-related diseases including Alzheimer's. She has also pioneered research on epigenetic mechanisms in social behavior using ant models, and in T cell exhaustion relevant to cancer immunotherapy. A unifying theme across her publications is the role of specific histone modifications and chromatin regulators in controlling gene expression programs in diverse biological contexts. Dr. Berger has received numerous honors including her appointment as a Daniel S. Och University Professor and a "Penn Integrates Knowledge" Presidential Appointment, recognizing her exceptional interdisciplinary contributions to science. These prestigious appointments reflect her significant impact on the fields of epigenetics and chromatin biology. Dr. Berger mentors a vibrant research team consisting of multiple postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and research specialists. Her laboratory, part of the Epigenetics Institute at Penn, investigates fundamental mechanisms of chromatin regulation with implications for human health and disease. Current research directions include exploring how epigenetic mechanisms control aging processes, cancer development, and social behavior in model organisms. Dr. Berger collaborates extensively with other leading researchers, including Carl June (pioneer of CAR T cell therapy) and John Wherry (expert in T cell exhaustion), to translate basic epigenetic discoveries into potential therapeutic applications. The Berger Lab operates within the Smilow Center for Translational Research at the University of Pennsylvania. The lab employs a multidisciplinary approach combining molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics, and model organism studies to investigate chromatin regulation. Current research foci include epigenetic mechanisms in aging and senescence, cancer epigenetics, neuroepigenetics, and behavioral epigenetics in social insects.
Christopher Jones is a Professor of Biology at Moravian University. He has been affiliated with the institution since 1999, where he teaches courses in molecular biology and genomics. Jones is actively involved in the Genome Consortium for Active Teaching (GCAT) and the Genomics Education Partnership (GEP), integrating advanced genomic research into undergraduate education through initiatives like DNA microarray analysis and collaborative annotation of Drosophila genomic data. B.A. in Biology and Russian, Haverford College M.Phil. in Molecular Biophysics & Biochemistry, Yale University Ph.D. in Molecular Biophysics & Biochemistry, Yale University His research focuses on molecular genetics , particularly the genetic basis of learning and memory in Drosophila melanogaster . Earlier work explored bacterial flagellar assembly, including studies on Salmonella typhimurium as a postdoctoral fellow at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Jones' work spans neurological research (Alzheimer's disease via presenilin gene analysis), genomics pedagogy, and evolutionary biology. Key article trends include genomics education (2014-2020), Drosophila memory mechanisms (1997-2007), and foundational bacterial motility studies (1985-1992). His work with GEP and GCAT demonstrates commitment to course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs). Scientific Awards : NIH Postdoctoral Fellow Henry Wendt Neuroscience Fellow Jones mentors students through research collaborations, with Moravian undergraduates appearing as co-authors on publications. He contributes to genomics education through curriculum development and national partnerships. His laboratory work historically focused on bacterial flagellar complexes and Drosophila neurogenetics.
Xuefei Huang is a Professor in the Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Chemistry at Michigan State University (MSU), serving as Associate Chair for Research in the Chemistry Department. He earned his Ph.D. from Columbia University and previously worked at the University of Toledo. His research integrates synthetic chemistry, biology, and engineering to develop advanced tools for disease diagnosis and treatment, with a focus on carbohydrate chemistry, molecular imaging, and targeted drug delivery. Education: Ph.D., Columbia University Bachelor's degree, University of Science and Technology of China Research Interests: His work emphasizes the synthesis and application of carbohydrates, particularly in developing vaccines, anti-cancer therapies, and diagnostic nanoparticles. Key areas include glycoconjugate vaccines, nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, and immunotherapies targeting cell surface carbohydrates. The Huang Lab employs interdisciplinary approaches, combining organic synthesis, molecular imaging, and virology. Research Trends in Publications: Recent work focuses on carbohydrate-based vaccines (e.g., SARS-CoV-2, Salmonella), glyco-nanoparticle design for imaging and surgery guidance, and structure-activity relationships in heparin/heparan sulfate oligosaccharides. Labs & Teams: The Huang Lab collaborates across disciplines to advance biomedical innovations, with a focus on translational applications in oncology, infectious diseases, and nanotechnology.
C. Nick Pace is a Distinguished Professor and Regents Professor at Texas A&M University’s School of Medicine, affiliated with the Department of Molecular & Cellular Medicine. He joined the faculty in 1968 and has held visiting roles at Osaka University (1992) and the MRC Centre in Cambridge (1982). His research focuses on protein structure-function relationships, including how amino acid sequences influence folding, stability, solubility, and biological activity. Key themes include predicting protein behavior from sequences and understanding denatured state interactions. Education: PhD in Biochemistry, Duke University (1966) BS in Chemistry, University of Utah (1962) Research emphasizes protein ionization, pH effects, and engineering solutions to enhance protein solubility and stability. Recent work explores beta-turn optimization and long-range interactions in denatured proteins. Over 50 years of contributions to structural biology include pivotal studies on ribonuclease Sa and pK value analysis. Awards: Regents Professor, McMullin Professor of Genetics. Notable Collaborations: Postdoctoral work with Charles Tanford (Duke), Gordon Hammes (Cornell), Tom Creighton, and Alan Barrett (Cambridge).
Nediljko Budisa is a Professor and Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Chemical Synthetic Biology and Xenobiology at the University of Manitoba's Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry. His research program focuses on expanding the fundamental biochemical capabilities of living systems through genetic code engineering and synthetic biology approaches. Dr. Budisa's research spans multiple cutting-edge areas in synthetic biology, with particular emphasis on genetic code expansion , non-canonical amino acid incorporation , and protein engineering . His laboratory employs both classical biochemical techniques and advanced computational methods to develop orthogonal translation systems, engineer novel enzymes, and create synthetic cells with expanded biochemical repertoires. His work bridges chemistry, biology, and engineering to address fundamental questions about life processes while developing practical applications in biotechnology and medicine. Analysis of Dr. Budisa's publication record reveals a consistent trajectory of innovation in genetic code engineering, with recent work increasingly integrating machine learning approaches for protein design. His research spans from fundamental studies of protein structure-function relationships to applied research in metabolic engineering and antiviral strategies, demonstrating the versatility of synthetic biology approaches. Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Chemical Synthetic Biology and Xenobiology Dr. Budisa leads an active research program supported by his Canada Research Chair position, with extensive collaborations across Canada and internationally. His work has resulted in numerous patents and commercial applications in biotechnology. He actively participates in the synthetic biology community through initiatives like Prairie iGEM BioExM and has delivered public lectures on methodological challenges in expanded genetic code research. His research is conducted through the Chemical Synthetic Biology and Xenobiology laboratory at the University of Manitoba, where his team explores the social, cultural, educational, ethical and philosophical aspects of synthetic biology alongside technical innovations, reflecting a comprehensive approach to advancing this transformative field.
Associate Professor Nicolas Bordenave is a cross-appointed member at the School of Nutrition Sciences, University of Ottawa, focusing on molecular interactions between macronutrients and phytonutrients in food systems. His research explores how these interactions affect glycemic response and phenolic bioavailability in cereal, fruit, and vegetable-based systems. Education: Ph.D. in Food Science (specific institution not mentioned in text) Prior Roles: Research positions at PepsiCo (Chicago, UK) and postdoctoral training at Purdue University's Whistler Center Professional Involvement: Board member of Feeding Tomorrow (IFT Foundation), contributor to Radio Canada's Moteur de recherche program His research spans starch/phenolic interactions , nutritional functionality , and biodegradable packaging materials , with applications in metabolic health and food formulation . Recent publications highlight trends in beta-glucan viscosity , starch digestibility , and phytonutrient delivery . Scientific contributions include methodological advancements in glycemic response assessment and chitosan-based packaging . Key collaborations include work with researchers at Purdue, PepsiCo, and industry partners. His lab investigates macronutrient-phytonutrient interactions , nutritional biochemistry , and functional food design . Current projects align with improving metabolic health through optimized food structures.
Ping Zhou is an Associate Professor of Research in Neuroscience at the Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, where he has been conducting groundbreaking research since 2013. His work focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying neurovascular dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. Dr. Zhou received his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1991 and completed his undergraduate studies at Nanjing University in China in 1982. His educational background provided the foundation for his extensive research career in neuroscience and neurovascular biology. Dr. Zhou's research interests center on neurovascular coupling, cerebral amyloid angiopathy, and mitochondrial mechanisms of neuroprotection. His laboratory investigates how ApoE4 contributes to neurovascular dysfunction, the role of border-associated macrophages in white matter injury, and the neuroprotective functions of prohibitin through S-nitrosylation. His work bridges basic molecular mechanisms with translational applications for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Analysis of Dr. Zhou's recent publications reveals a strong focus on the intersection of neuroinflammation and neurovascular dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease. His work increasingly incorporates single-cell and epigenetic approaches while maintaining a strong emphasis on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress pathways. The research shows a clear progression from basic mechanisms of neurovascular coupling to more complex investigations of macrophage interactions and genetic risk factors like ApoE4. Dr. Zhou currently serves as Principal Investigator on the NINDS-funded project "Role of prohibitin nitrosylation in its neuroprotective functions" (2022-2027) and as Co-Investigator on two additional NINDS grants: "ApoE4, neurovascular injury and cognitive impairment" (2022-2027) and "Dietary sodium, neurovascular dysfunction and cerebrovascular risk" (2021-2026). These projects reflect his continued focus on molecular mechanisms of neuroprotection and vascular contributions to cognitive impairment. While the available information doesn't specify his laboratory structure, Dr. Zhou's extensive publication record spanning over two decades suggests leadership of a productive research team focused on neurovascular biology and neurodegeneration mechanisms.
Shawn Chen is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Hamilton College, focusing on deep learning and its applications in computational biology and bioinformatics. His research emphasizes protein structure prediction, determination, and function prediction. Educational Background: Ph.D., University of Missouri-Columbia M.A., University of Missouri-Columbia B.S., Anhui Polytechnic University, Wuhu, China Shawn's work bridges deep learning with computational biology , particularly in enhancing protein structure prediction through cryo-EM map enhancement, graph neural networks, and genome-scale modeling tools. His publications reflect expertise in AI-driven structural validation, protein complex quality assessment, and dataset creation for computational methods. Recent trends in his research include leveraging long-tail gene ontology terms for protein function prediction, integrating equivariant graph neural networks for 3D structure refinement, and advancing template-free prediction via deep ranking algorithms. He is accessible via email at schen3@hamilton.edu and located in Taylor Science Center, Room 2016.
Emil Marklund is an Assistant Professor at Stockholm University's Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, leading his research group in exploring molecular recognition mechanisms and sequence-structure-function relationships in biological macromolecules. His lab combines high-throughput biophysical measurements with computational modeling to achieve quantitative understanding of molecular interactions. Research focuses include: High-throughput analysis of molecular binding specificity Computational modeling of macromolecular interactions Structural biology and biophysics of protein-DNA/RNA systems In 2025, the lab received a prestigious Future Research Leader grant (SEK 15 million over five years) from the Swedish Foundation for Strategic Research, which will support both research and leadership development. Contact: emil.marklund@dbb.su.se
Mark F Reynolds is an Associate Professor at the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Saint Joseph’s University. He earned a BA in Chemistry from Grinnell College (1993) and a PhD in Inorganic Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (1999), followed by postdoctoral work at the University of Minnesota. His research focuses on heme-based gas sensing proteins that regulate biological processes like blood pressure and nitrogen fixation. He pioneered studies on the oxygen-sensing FixL protein in alfalfa and soybean agriculture and discovered the heme-responsive ion channel in human Slo1 BK channels. Collaborations with Dr. Toshi Hoshi’s lab at the University of Pennsylvania advanced understanding of heme signaling. Recent publications highlight bioremediation of industrial dyes via heme protein catalysis (2024), conformational dynamics in FixL oxygen sensing (2024), and structural analysis of Mn(II) enzyme active sites (2005). Scientific awards include the 2022 ACS Excellence in College Teaching Award . He has directed the Office of Fellowships at Saint Joseph’s University, mentoring students to secure Fulbright , Goldwater , and NSF fellowships. His outreach includes urban nutrition education projects and media appearances on NPR and in Science Daily .
Professor Lennart Randau is a leading researcher in the field of Genetics at Philipps University of Marburg, affiliated with the Faculty of Biology. His work is conducted in conjunction with the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology in Marburg, Germany, where he investigates molecular mechanisms underlying CRISPR-Cas systems and related biotechnological applications. Research focus on CRISPR-Cas evolution and inhibition mechanisms Investigates structural and functional diversity of prokaryotic defense systems Active in developing genome engineering tools from microbial systems His recent publications highlight CRISPR-Cas transitions from natural immunity to synthetic biology applications, with particular emphasis on anti-CRISPR proteins and transposon-associated gene integration mechanisms. Professor Randau's laboratory employs interdisciplinary approaches combining molecular biology, biochemistry, structural biology, and genomics to unravel the complexities of microbial genetic defense systems and their potential applications in biotechnology.
