Find Academic Supervisors

Carl J. BassiView profile

Teaching Professor

• Visual System Assessment
• Color Vision Research
• Photophobia
• +5 more

Carl J. Bassi is a Teaching Professor and Director of Research at the College of Optometry , University of Missouri–St. Louis. His work focuses on advancing visual system evaluation in patient populations through interdisciplinary methodologies. Contact: Email: bassi@umsl.edu | Phone: (314) 516-6029 | Office: 419 Marillac Hall Research Interests: Dr. Bassi’s laboratory develops novel devices for assessing color vision, visual suppression, and photophobia. He investigates the impact of macular pigment zeaxanthin on visual function, evaluates color vision in applied settings, and employs electrophysiological (ERGs, VEPs) and psychophysical techniques (contrast sensitivity, stereopsis) to study structure-function relationships in dementia, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal abnormalities. Scientific Awards: Curator's Distinguished Teaching Professor Weldon Springs award Grants & Collaborations: Funded by Northrup-Grumman Technologies, Zeavision, Missouri Alzheimer's Association, University of Missouri Research Board, and industry partnerships.

Leonid S. BrownView profile

Professor

• Biophysics
• Biochemistry
• Membrane proteins
• +6 more

Leonid S. Brown is a full Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Guelph and serves as Associate Dean (Research & Graduate Studies) for the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences. His research focuses on light-activated membrane proteins important in bioenergetics and vision, particularly microbial rhodopsins. Dr. Brown obtained his PhD in Biology (Biophysics) from Moscow State University in 1991 and joined the University of Guelph in 2002. His work combines modern biophysics with molecular biology and biochemistry techniques to study retinal-binding proteins. His research primarily investigates three major areas: exploring novel microbial rhodopsins for bioenergetics and sensory transduction; studying protein-lipid interactions and folding using NMR spectroscopy; and developing methods for structural characterization of medically important membrane proteins. His recent publications show a strong focus on channelrhodopsins for optogenetics applications, membrane protein structure determination using advanced NMR techniques, and the molecular mechanisms of proton and ion transport in various rhodopsin families. Premier's Research Excellence Award (2003) Research Innovation Award (2003) Member of Editorial Board of the Biophysical Journal (2009-2015) DAAD and Ontario-Baden-Württemberg scholarships (2016) Visiting Professorships at Nagoya Institute of Technology (2015) and Sogang University (2009) Dr. Brown leads the Photobiophysics Group and collaborates extensively with researchers worldwide. His laboratory utilizes advanced instrumentation including high-end time-resolved vacuum infrared spectrometers, Raman/FTIR combination spectrometers, and time-resolved visible range laser spectrometers. The group specializes in membrane protein expression, isotope labeling, purification, lipid reconstitution, and spectroscopic characterization of biomolecules. His research has received international recognition, particularly for discovering the first eukaryotic rhodopsin that functions as a light-driven transmembrane proton pump.

• Ophthalmology
• Glaucoma Research
• Cardiovascular-Ophthalmology Interactions
• +3 more

Dr. John Leaney is a Clinical Associate Lecturer at the Save Sight Institute, part of the University of Sydney's Faculty of Medicine and Health. His research focuses on ophthalmological conditions such as glaucoma, optic neuropathies, and the cardiovascular interactions affecting ocular health. He has contributed to studies involving retinal imaging techniques, smartphone-based diagnostic tools in neurology, and the impact of congenital heart disease on ocular structures. His work bridges clinical practice and advanced imaging technologies, emphasizing disease differentiation and functional-structural correlations in eye diseases. Leaney's research spans over a decade, with notable contributions to understanding retinal vascular dynamics and their links to systemic conditions like cyanotic congenital heart disease. His collaborative projects include evaluating diagnostic accuracy through innovative methods such as smartphone photography in neurology departments. Despite no explicit mention of awards or grants, his publications reflect sustained engagement with high-impact clinical research areas.

Coran WatanabeView profile

Professor

• Chemical Biology
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Natural Products Biosynthesis
• +3 more

Coran Watanabe is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Texas A&M University, leading the Watanabe Research Group. His research focuses on natural products biosynthesis, particularly the anti-tumor agent azinomycin and AMD-related lipofuscin cycloretinal. He holds a B.S. from the University of Hawaii (1992), a Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University (1998), and completed postdoctoral training at the Scripps Research Institute (2002). Research interests include: 1) Biosynthesis and mechanism of azinomycin’s DNA cross-linking activity; 2) Role of β-lactoglobulin in cycloretinal synthesis linked to AMD pathogenesis; 3) Development of biochemical methods to activate silent biosynthetic pathways. Key techniques used include genetic engineering, isotopic labeling, fluorescence microscopy, and PET imaging. Recent work highlights cycloretinal’s role in retinal damage, with studies showing BLG’s survival through digestion and blood transport. Grants include Welch and NSF awards. Notable publications (2011-2022) address azinomycin oxygen incorporation, thioesterase mechanisms, and β-lactoglobulin enzymology. Awards: ACS Rising Star (2007), Dreyfus Lectureship (2008), Research Corporation Innovation Award (2003) Lab Members: Includes 5 graduate students, 2 undergraduates, and a postdoc Future Directions: Targeting AMD therapies via BLG inhibition and optimizing azinomycin derivatives

Silvia CammaroneView profile

Researcher

• Pharmaceutical Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Nanotechnology
• +5 more

Silvia Cammarone is a Researcher at the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology within Sapienza University of Rome . Her work spans pharmaceutical chemistry, nanotechnology, and natural product-based drug development, with a focus on antimicrobial resistance reversal and tumor-targeted therapies. Research Focus: Antibiotic delivery systems, immunosensor development, and cancer-targeting compounds Key Projects: Synthesis of Smoothened receptor antagonists for Hedgehog-dependent tumors Research Interests center on overcoming antibiotic resistance through ArnT inhibitors, developing nanovehicles for drug delivery, and exploring natural products for anticancer and antiviral applications. Her work on resorc[4]arene-functionalized nanomaterials advances biosensor technology. Publication Trends show expertise in Journal of Organic Chemistry , International Journal of Pharmaceutics , and Antibiotics , with recent emphasis on nanocarrier systems and structure-activity relationship studies. Scientific Collaborations include participation in the Paul Ehrlich Euro-PhD Network and the XLVI International Summer School on Organic Synthesis.

Hasan Basri ArifoğluView profile

Associate Professor

• Medical Retina
• Vitreoretinal Surgery
• Ophthalmology
• +3 more

Prof. Dr. Hasan Basri Arifoğlu is an Associate Professor at Okan University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, specializing in Medical Retina and Vitreoretinal Surgery. He has been actively contributing to ophthalmology research and clinical practice since completing his specialist training in 2010. Graduated from Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine Completed specialist training at SB Ankara Atatürk Training and Research Hospital (2010) Completed compulsory service at Ulucanlar Eye Training and Research Hospital and Rize Kaçkar State Hospital Participated in preceptorship program at University of Chicago Vitreoretinal Surgery Unit (2015) Attended EVRS fellowship course in Bremen (2016) Appointed Associate Professor at Okan University Faculty of Medicine (2017) Dr. Arifoğlu's research primarily focuses on Medical Retina and Vitreoretinal Surgery, with significant contributions to understanding retinal diseases, vitreoretinal surgical techniques, and ocular imaging. His work explores the relationship between systemic conditions and ocular manifestations, particularly in areas such as choroidal thickness changes, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. He has pioneered research on the effects of physiological maneuvers like Valsalva on ocular structures and has contributed to advancements in corneal crosslinking techniques for pediatric keratoconus. His extensive publication record demonstrates expertise across multiple ophthalmological subspecialties, with particular emphasis on retinal vascular diseases, macular disorders, and innovative surgical approaches. Dr. Arifoğlu has published over 25 articles in international refereed journals and presented at numerous international conferences, accumulating 99 citations according to Web of Science and Google Scholar. Gazi Eye Foundation Scientific Incentive Award (2014) EVRS European Vitreoretinal Training School Certification (2016) Dr. Arifoğlu has been actively involved in numerous research collaborations and has supervised multiple studies examining the relationship between systemic diseases and ocular manifestations. His work often involves multidisciplinary approaches, collaborating with cardiology, hematology, and obstetrics specialists to understand how systemic conditions affect ocular structures. He has been instrumental in establishing protocols for evaluating choroidal thickness changes in various clinical scenarios and has contributed to refining vitreoretinal surgical techniques. Through his affiliation with Okan University Hospital, Dr. Arifoğlu leads a research team focused on advancing vitreoretinal diagnostics and therapeutics. His laboratory utilizes state-of-the-art imaging technologies including spectral-domain optical coherence tomography to investigate retinal and choroidal pathologies. The team is currently exploring innovative approaches to managing macular edema and optimizing outcomes for patients with retinal vascular diseases.

Ramaswamy SubramanianView profile

Professor

• Structural Biology
• Biophysics
• Enzyme Mechanisms
• +5 more

Ramaswamy Subramanian is a Professor of Biological Sciences at Purdue University, affiliated with the College of Science. His research focuses on macromolecular structure-function relationships using X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM. He previously served as Senior Professor and Dean at the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Biology in Bangalore and co-founded the Center for Cellular and Molecular Platforms. Subramanian holds a PhD in Molecular Biophysics from the Indian Institute of Science (1992). His laboratory investigates enzyme mechanisms, protein-ligand interactions, and membrane transporters with dual focus on nine-carbon sugars and metalloenzymes (Fe/Zn). Notable projects include studies on cockroach milk proteins and blue fish fluorescent proteins. His work bridges basic biology and translational applications, such as drug discovery and biotechnology. Recent research highlights include elucidating molecular mechanisms in TRAP transporters, Neu5Ac binding, and metabolic pathways in bacteria. The lab emphasizes collaborations to advance structural biology and fosters entrepreneurship to accelerate technology transfer. Subramanian’s team includes graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, with ongoing projects on protein dynamics and disease-relevant enzymes. Publications emphasize open-access journals, reflecting a commitment to accessibility. The lab’s activities include structural biology training, innovative enzyme engineering, and exploring biophysical techniques for complex systems.

• Ocular Imaging
• Amblyopia
• Glaucoma
• +2 more

Ian Pacey is an Associate Professor and Director of Studies for Optometry at the University of Bradford. His research examines visual perception in amblyopia and glaucoma using ocular imaging techniques, with PhD training at Aston University. Research focuses on: Structural and functional changes in amblyopia Novel approaches for early glaucoma detection Perceptual consequences of visual disorders Recent publications analyze visual outcomes in macular degeneration and prehension in amblyopia. Current projects involve OCT imaging of foveal structure and binocular summation mechanisms.

Janna HastingsView profile

Assistant Professor

• Medical Knowledge Systems
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
• Ontology Development
• +4 more

Janna Hastings is Assistant Professor for Medical Knowledge and Decision Support at the Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care (Faculty of Medicine) at the University of Zurich since August 2022, while also serving as Vice-Director of the School of Medicine at the University of St. Gallen. Her research focuses on digitalization in clinical contexts, examining how AI-driven knowledge systems reshape clinical practice, professional identity, and doctor-patient relationships. Education: PhD in Computational Biology (University of Cambridge, 2019), part-time MSc in Computer Science (University of South Africa, 2011), MSc in Philosophy (Open University, 2012) Prior Roles: Group Coordinator at European Bioinformatics Institute (2006-2015), Postdoctoral Researcher at Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg (2019-2022), Co-Leader of Human Behaviour-Change Project at University College London (2017-2022) Her research spans ontology development for biomedical domains (ChEBI, Human Behaviour Ontology), AI applications in healthcare decision-making, and behavior change interventions. Key projects include: Building ChEBI molecular ontology Developing Human Behaviour-Change Project knowledge system Ontology-driven mental health frameworks LLM applications in radiation oncology Time-series modeling of metabolism in ageing She explores the capabilities and limitations of clinical AI systems, with publications in JMIR and Lancet Digital Health , covering topics like bias prevention in generative AI and proteomic biomarker discovery. Her work bridges biomedical research with implementation science and digital ethics.

Jun YangView profile

Professor

• Photoreceptor Biology
• Retinal Degeneration
• Usher Syndrome
• +4 more

Jun Yang is a Professor at the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Adjunct Professor in Neurobiology at University of Utah Health. His research focuses on the genetics and cell biology of photoreceptors and hair cells, particularly in relation to Usher syndrome and retinal degeneration. Education: B.S. from Nankai University, Ph.D. from University of Massachusetts Amherst Yang's lab investigates molecular mechanisms of heritable retinal degeneration, including photoreceptor trafficking, calcium regulation, and the multi-protein Usher II complex. His work explores gene therapy approaches using AAV vectors to treat mouse models of retinal diseases. The 15 most recent publications highlight studies on CFAP418-lipid interactions, USH2 complex integrity, photoreceptor disc morphogenesis, TRPV1 channel regulation, and stereocilia development. These works span molecular genetics, protein biochemistry, and translational therapies for sensory cilia disorders. His research has been published in journals like JCI Insight , Human Molecular Genetics , and PLoS Genetics , with a focus on protein-protein interactions, ciliary rootlet structure, and membrane homeostasis. Collaborative projects include studies on cytomegalovirus-induced hearing loss and therapeutic interventions. Jun Yang's laboratory at University of Utah Health employs mouse genetics, molecular biology, and advanced microscopy to understand and develop treatments for retinal and auditory degeneration diseases.

Zahra TajbakhshView profile

Lecturer

• Ocular Surface Disease
• Myopia Control
• In Vivo Confocal Microscopy
• +10 more

Dr. Zahra Tajbakhsh is a Lecturer at the Department of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Allied Health, The University of Western Australia. She holds a PhD in Optometry and Vision Science (2022) from UNSW Sydney, focusing on dendritic cells in ocular allergy, and earned her BOptom and MSc from Iran. Her research spans ocular surface disease, myopia control, contact lenses, and AI in retinal diagnostics, with over 28 publications and an h-index of 8. PhD, UNSW Sydney (2022): Dendritic cells in ocular allergy MSc in Optometry, Iran BOptom, Iran Dr. Tajbakhsh’s work integrates in vivo confocal microscopy with immunological studies to investigate conditions like allergic conjunctivitis, keratoconus, and LASIK recovery. Recent projects include AI-driven inherited retinal disease analysis and improving eye health literacy in Western Australia. She actively collaborates on ocular pressure dynamics, corneal structure, and pediatric vision research. Her publications highlight applications of AI in retinal diseases, keratoconus treatment, dendritic cell profiling, and pediatric ocular norms. Awards include recognition as an inaugural PhD Champion for UNSW Women in Math and Science. Current projects involve grants from the Perth Eye Foundation (2024–2027) to address eye health disparities. Inaugural PhD Champion, UNSW Women in Math and Science Dr. Tajbakhsh contributes to clinical research, teaching, and outreach, emphasizing diversity in STEM and advancing diagnostics for ocular conditions through interdisciplinary collaborations.

• Neuroscience
• Physiology
• Vision Science
• +5 more

Jeannie Chen, PhD, is a Professor of Physiology and Neuroscience at the University of Southern California (USC). Her research focuses on retinal degeneration mechanisms, photoreceptor biology, and vision restoration strategies. She leads studies on retinitis pigmentosa, congenital stationary night blindness, and the role of proteins like arrestin and rhodopsin in retinal signaling and survival. Her work employs mouse models to investigate gene therapy efficacy, synaptic transmission in degenerating retinas, and protein dynamics (e.g., huntingtin fibrils). Recent studies highlight cone-mediated vision persistence during rod degeneration and the impact of metabolic pathways (e.g., lactate) on photoreceptor function. Dr. Chen’s research bridges molecular mechanisms and therapeutic applications, with publications spanning 2006–2024. She is affiliated with USC’s Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI). Key areas: Retinal degeneration, phototransduction, gene therapy, protein interactions. Techniques: Mouse models, biochemical assays, protein isolation, in vivo imaging. Publications emphasize retinal signaling pathways, synaptic plasticity, and the role of exchangers (e.g., NCKX proteins) in maintaining vision. Her work also extends to agricultural microbiology (e.g., Bacillus subtilis effects on poultry growth).

• Retinal Imaging
• Adaptive Optics
• Cone Photoreceptors
• +6 more

Joseph J. Carroll, PhD is a Professor and Director at the Medical College of Wisconsin, where he is affiliated with the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and is a member of the Neuroscience Research Center. His research bridges clinical ophthalmology with advanced imaging technologies to study retinal structure and function. Dr. Carroll's research focuses on high-resolution retinal imaging, particularly using adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO) to examine photoreceptor structure in both healthy and diseased eyes. His work spans several key areas including achromatopsia, USH2A-related retinopathies, cone photoreceptor structure-function relationships, and the development of novel imaging techniques for assessing retinal diseases. He has made significant contributions to understanding the relationship between retinal structure and visual function in inherited retinal diseases. Analysis of Dr. Carroll's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on longitudinal studies of retinal structure in genetic eye diseases, particularly achromatopsia and USH2A-related conditions. His work frequently employs advanced imaging modalities like adaptive optics and optical coherence tomography to examine the cone mosaic and other retinal structures at unprecedented resolution. A notable trend is his investigation of animal models, particularly the 13-lined ground squirrel, to study cone-dominant retinal physiology and disease mechanisms. As Director, Dr. Carroll leads research initiatives focused on developing and applying cutting-edge imaging technologies to better understand retinal diseases and monitor disease progression. His work with the Neuroscience Research Center supports interdisciplinary approaches to studying visual system disorders. Dr. Carroll has also contributed significantly to the academic community through editorial work, as evidenced by his publications on peer review practices in ophthalmology journals.

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Diseases
• Age-related Macular Degeneration
• +3 more

Christina Gianniou is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Clinical Medicine at the University of Copenhagen, specializing in Ophthalmology. Her role bridges clinical practice and academic research within medical sciences, with affiliations extending to Region Sjælland healthcare services as indicated by her institutional email domain. Her research focuses on Ophthalmology and Retinal Diseases, particularly Age-related Macular Degeneration and Vision Science. She investigates clinical correlations between anatomical changes and functional vision outcomes in retinal disorders, emphasizing diagnostic imaging and therapeutic efficacy in macular disease management. Her 2023 publication explores structural-functional relationships in neovascular age-related macular degeneration treatment, highlighting trends in precision ophthalmology through retinal imaging and anti-VEGF therapy optimization. This work contributes to broader medical research on improving visual outcomes via integrated diagnostic-therapeutic approaches. No scientific awards were documented in the source material. Details regarding student supervision, grant funding, or laboratory leadership could not be verified from the provided text, though her collaborative publication indicates active research engagement with clinical colleagues.

Colin A. JohnsonView profile

Professor

• autosomal recessive disease
• ciliopathies
• primary cilia
• +3 more

Professor Colin A. Johnson holds the position of Professor of Medical & Molecular Genetics at the University of Leeds, where he has been since 2006 (promoted to Professor in 2010). Previously, he worked at the University of Birmingham (1996–2006) as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, Lecturer, and Senior Lecturer in Medical Genetics. His expertise spans rare genetic disorders, ciliopathies, and advanced imaging techniques. He leads research in gene discovery, high-content imaging, and transcriptomics, supported by the University of Leeds' bioimaging and bioinformatics infrastructure. His work includes collaborations with the Vision Research Group and the use of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing and iPSC-derived retinal cells. Education: PhD in Biochemistry (University of Glasgow, 1995); BA in Biochemistry (Queen's College, University of Oxford, 1992). Research interests focus on two core areas: (1) identifying genes for rare disorders, with over 60 new disease genes discovered since 2011 via the Sir Jules Thorn Award, and (2) investigating ciliopathies, particularly the role of the ubiquitin-proteasome system in cilium formation. His studies in Nature Cell Biology have advanced understanding of cilium structure-function relationships. Future work emphasizes super-resolution microscopy using Affimers and CRISPR-Cas9 to explore ciliary pathways. Awards & Recognition: Recipient of the Sir Jules Thorn Award for Biomedical Research (2011), enabling translational research, patient benefits, and early-career training. Active in professional roles, including editorial board membership for Cilia and Wellcome Trust grant committee membership. Advising & Grants: Supervises postgraduate researchers like Alice V. R. Lake. Research is supported by interdisciplinary collaborations and infrastructure at the Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James's and the Multidisciplinary Cardiovascular Research Centre. Labs/Teams: Integrates with the Vision Research Group and leverages University of Leeds facilities for advanced imaging and bioinformatics.