Find Academic Supervisors

• Cardiac excitation/contraction coupling
• Calcium-induced calcium release
• Calcium channel selectivity
• +3 more

Dirk Gillespie, PhD, holds the title of The John H. and Margaret V. Krehbiel Professor of Cardiology in the Department of Physiology & Biophysics at Rush University Medical Center. His academic career is centered at Rush Medical College, where he contributes to both research and education. He earned his PhD from Rush University, alongside an MS from Northwestern University and a BA from Johns Hopkins University. His research focuses on calcium signaling in cardiac and skeletal muscle, including calcium-induced calcium release (CICR) mechanisms, ion channel selectivity, and nanofluidic systems. Key areas include modeling cardiac calcium dynamics, understanding ryanodine receptor (RyR) function, and exploring nanoscale ion transport phenomena. Gillespie’s work integrates computational methods like Monte Carlo simulations and density functional theory to study biophysical processes. He leads the Laboratory of Dirk Gillespie, PhD, which investigates CICR in cardiac and skeletal muscle, calcium movement during muscle contraction, and nanofluidic applications such as energy conversion and molecular sensing. His lab develops novel algorithms (e.g., DABOSS, PACO) to model reaction-diffusion systems and ion channel behavior. Education: PhD, Rush University MS, Northwestern University BA, Johns Hopkins University Grants & Awards: Active NIH grants and collaborations in cardiac physiology and nanofluidics (specific awards not explicitly listed). Lab Affiliations: Rush University Department of Physiology & Biophysics Center for Integrated Microbiome and Chronobiology Research (CIMCR) Gillespie’s publications span over two decades, addressing ion channel selectivity, nanofluidic device modeling, and cardiac calcium dynamics. His work bridges theoretical physics and biomedical applications, with implications for understanding heart disease and developing nanotechnology-based sensors.

Val Andrew FajardoView profile

Associate Professor

• Muscle Remodeling
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Aging and Diabetes
• +3 more

Val Andrew Fajardo, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at Brock University and holds the Canada Research Chair in Tissue Remodelling and Plasticity throughout the Lifespan. His research focuses on understanding muscle wasting conditions such as muscular dystrophy, aging, and spaceflight-induced atrophy, alongside metabolic disorders like obesity and type 2 diabetes. He investigates therapeutic strategies involving SERCA (sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase) regulation, glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) inhibition, and calmodulin pathways. Research interests include calmodulin regulation, muscle-based thermogenesis, and the role of sarcolipin in calcium handling. Fajardo's work spans molecular mechanisms to translational therapies, with a particular emphasis on lipid metabolism and protein interactions in muscle cells. His publications highlight contributions to understanding lithium's effects on Alzheimer’s risk, muscle dystrophy mitigation through OPG-Fc therapy, and the interplay between environmental factors (e.g., temperature) and metabolic health. Collaborations with institutions like NASA (spaceflight studies) and interdisciplinary teams (e.g., immunology, cardiology) underscore his translational research approach. Key findings include GSK3 inhibition improving muscle function in dystrophy models and lithium's potential in neuroprotection and metabolic regulation. Fajardo’s lab actively explores novel drug targets and environmental interventions to combat muscle degeneration and metabolic diseases.

John ElrodView profile

Professor

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Mitochondrial Calcium Signaling
• Heart Failure
• +7 more

John Elrod, PhD, is a Professor and Director of the Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University. He leads a research laboratory focused on mitochondrial calcium signaling and its role in heart disease, particularly myocardial infarction and heart failure. His work integrates molecular, genetic, and systems biology approaches to uncover novel therapeutic targets. His research interests center on mitochondrial calcium exchange , genetic regulation of cell death , and metabolic dysfunction in cardiovascular disease . The Elrod lab utilizes genome-wide functional screening and genetically engineered mouse models to dissect the molecular mechanisms underlying necrosis and metabolic inflexibility in the heart. A major focus is on the mitochondrial permeability transition pore, the MCU complex, and NCLX-mediated calcium efflux. His recent publications reveal a strong trend toward understanding the metabolic-epigenetic axis in cardiac remodeling , organelle dynamics in heart failure , and mitochondrial calcium as a central regulator of cell fate . His work spans from basic mechanisms to translational models, including large animal studies of HFpEF. Postdoctoral Fellow, Cincinnati Children's Medical Hospital, Howard Hughes Medical Institute (2012) PhD, Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine (2007) BS, Biology (cum laude), Centenary College (2002) Dr. Elrod has trained numerous researchers and collaborates extensively across disciplines. His lab has produced seminal work on hydrogen sulfide, nitric oxide, and mitochondrial calcium in cardioprotection. He has not received any explicitly listed scientific awards in the provided text, but his publication record in top-tier journals (Nature, PNAS, Circulation, Cell Metabolism) underscores significant recognition in the field. He is actively involved in mentoring students and postdoctoral fellows, though specific names are not listed. His lab operates at the intersection of cardiac metabolism , mitochondrial dynamics , and fibrotic remodeling , with a clear focus on identifying druggable pathways for heart disease. The Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research under his directorship.

• Cardiovascular Sciences
• Extracellular Matrix Biology
• Cardiac Regeneration
• +3 more

Christian Pinali is a Research Fellow at the University of Manchester in the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences . His work focuses on cardiac extracellular matrix biology, lipotoxicity mechanisms, and calcium signaling in cardiovascular pathologies. Key affiliations: British Society for Matrix Biology, Royal Microscopical Society Research themes: Extracellular matrix proteoglycans, cardiac tissue regeneration, transverse tubular system reconstruction His recent publications highlight advancements in hydrogel-based cardiac repair strategies, molecular interventions in HFpEF, and PAK3-SREBP1c signaling in obesity cardiomyopathy. Notably, he utilizes cutting-edge imaging techniques like confocal microscopy and scanning electron microscopy to investigate cardiac ultrastructure. Scientific recognition includes a competitive research fellowship awarded in 2017 for his work on proteoglycan contributions to cardiac elasticity. He serves as guest editor and peer reviewer for Philosophical Transactions B and participates in academic hosting activities.

• Cardiology
• Cardiac electrophysiology
• Arrhythmias
• +3 more

Dr. Luigi Venetucci is a Clinical Senior Lecturer in Cardiology at the Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester. His research focuses on cardiac electrophysiology, arrhythmias, and calcium signaling mechanisms in cardiac cells. His primary research interests include: Cardiac electrophysiology and arrhythmia mechanisms Calcium signaling in cardiac myocytes Ryanodine receptor function Sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium handling Cardiac response to environmental stressors Dr. Venetucci's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on molecular mechanisms of heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, and the impact of environmental factors on cardiac function. His work spans from basic science investigations of calcium handling to clinical studies of cardiomyopathy and heart failure. His notable collaborations include: Professor Silvia Priori at University of Pavia, Italy Professor Bernard Keavney at University of Manchester Professor David Eisner at University of Manchester Professor Andrew Trafford at University of Manchester Doctor Katharine Dibb at University of Manchester Dr. Venetucci has contributed to multiple research projects, particularly British Heart Foundation-funded PhD studentship programs from 2017-2023, where he served as a Co-Investigator. His methodological expertise includes: Patch clamp electrophysiology of cardiac myocytes Measurement of cytosolic calcium using fluorescent indicators Confocal microscopy

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Anesthesiology
• Molecular Cardiology
• +4 more

Peter Darby serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Anesthesia within McMaster University's Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine. His research spans cardiovascular physiology, molecular mechanisms of organ injury, and pharmacological interventions in critical care settings. His primary research focuses on cardiopulmonary bypass effects (30% of scholarly output), pharmacology (20%), and specialized areas including hepatic ischemia adaptation and calcium signaling in smooth muscle. Key themes emerge from his publication history: molecular responses to cardiac surgery, renal hypoxia mechanisms during bypass procedures, and fundamental calcium regulation pathways in vascular and airway tissues. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals consistent investigation into ischemia-reperfusion injury across multiple organ systems, with particular emphasis on metabolic adaptation in liver ischemia (2017-2018), renal oxygenation during cardiopulmonary bypass (2006-2013), and calcium handling in smooth muscle (1991-2000). His work bridges basic molecular mechanisms with clinical anesthesiology applications. Peter Darby maintains active scholarly engagement with 13 publications spanning 1991-2018 and shows significant co-authorship with Chiu-yin Kwan (6 joint publications). His research has been referenced in 3 patents and maintains ongoing readership across Mendeley platforms.

• Cardiac Metabolism
• Diabetes Mellitus
• Mitochondrial Dynamics
• +4 more

Evan Dale Abel is Professor and Chair of the Department of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). His research program, substantially funded by the NIH, investigates molecular mechanisms linking metabolic disorders like diabetes to cardiovascular complications. Key focus areas include cardiac insulin resistance, mitochondrial dynamics in heart failure, and the impact of oxidative stress on diabetic cardiomyopathy. Abel's work spans fundamental metabolic pathways in cardiac and skeletal muscle, exploring how disruptions in glucose uptake, insulin/IGF-1 signaling, mitochondrial function (e.g., involving OPA1, GLUT proteins), and autophagy contribute to disease pathogenesis. His recent publications demonstrate a strong emphasis on translating basic discoveries in mitochondrial bioenergetics, autophagy regulation, and metabolic reprogramming into understanding human conditions like heart failure and type 2 diabetes. Research trends highlight the integration of advanced techniques, including metabolomics, electron microscopy analysis, and in vivo physiological modeling. He leads significant NIH grants, including R01 awards focused on molecular determinants of MG53 in heart function, modulating ROS via electromagnetic fields for type 2 diabetes treatment, OPA1's role in platelet hyperactivation, and diabetes research training. His laboratory investigates therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic pathways and oxidative stress in cardiovascular tissues.

Robert J. BlochView profile

Professor

• Skeletal muscle cell biology
• Membrane organization in excitable cells
• Muscular dystrophies
• +3 more

Robert J. Bloch, PhD , is a tenured Professor in the Department of Pharmacology & Physiology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine , with a secondary appointment in Orthopaedics . He joined the faculty in 1980 and has continuously advanced through the academic ranks to full Professor. His research laboratory is internationally recognized for elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms that organize membranes and cytoskeletal structures in skeletal muscle, with direct relevance to muscular dystrophies and muscle repair. Primary Institution: University of Maryland, Baltimore School: University of Maryland School of Medicine Departments: Pharmacology & Physiology (primary), Orthopaedics (secondary) Academic Rank: Professor (with tenure) Education & Training Dr. Bloch earned his A.B. in Biological Sciences from Columbia University in 1967 and his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Harvard University in 1972. He pursued post-doctoral training at the Biozentrum der Universität Basel (1972–1976) and served as a Research Associate at the Salk Institute before joining the University of Maryland faculty. Research Interests The Bloch laboratory investigates how specialized membrane compartments and cytoskeletal scaffolds assemble and function in striated muscle, particularly focusing on: Membrane-cytoskeleton interactions at the sarcolemma, transverse tubules, and sarcoplasmic reticulum Intermediate filament proteins (desmin, synemin, keratins) and their roles in maintaining cellular integrity Muscular dystrophy mechanisms involving dysferlin, obscurin, small ankyrin 1, and SERCA regulation Calcium signaling and excitation–contraction coupling defects in dystrophic muscle Xenografting of human muscle into mice to model disease and test therapeutic interventions Protein-protein interactions quantified via surface plasmon resonance, FRET, FRAP, and super-resolution imaging Funding & Grants The laboratory is supported by multiple NIH R01 and R21 awards and by foundation grants from the Jain Foundation, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Friends of FSH Research, SOLVE FSHD, and the FSHD Society. Collaborative agreements with biopharmaceutical companies further expand the translational impact of the work. Lab Team & Mentorship Current doctoral students: Kaila Noland, Dan Garman, Maria Traficante, Yi Li Research staff: Joaquin Muriel-Gonzalez, Valeriy Lukyanenko, Yinghua Zhang, Andrea O’Neill Training opportunities: Rotations are available to students in GPILS programs (Molecular Medicine, Neuroscience, Biochemistry); post-doctoral fellowships are supported by NIH and foundation grants. Scientific Awards & Honors While Dr. Bloch’s personal awards are not listed, his trainees have received numerous accolades, including the Martin Frank Diversity Travel Award, UMB President’s Fellowship, Olive Ruth Russell Fellowship, and best presentation prizes at national meetings.

• Physiology
• Biophysics
• Cardiac Physiology
• +4 more

Thomas Shannon, DVM, PhD, is an Associate Professor at Rush Medical College within the Department of Physiology & Biophysics at Rush University. His research focuses on calcium signaling in cardiac myocytes, particularly the role of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) in excitation-contraction coupling and pathologies like heart failure. He employs biochemical, biophysical, and molecular approaches to study SR calcium regulation and its implications in normal and diseased states. Educational Background : PhD and DVM from University of Missouri Research Interests include: Calcium homeostasis in cardiac cells Ryanodine receptor function and phosphorylation Adrenergic signaling in heart failure Sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium leak Excitation-contraction coupling mechanisms Molecular biophysics of ion transport Publication Trends show a focus on cardiac physiology, calcium signaling, and excitation-contraction coupling from 1994 to 2022, with collaborations with Douglas Bers, Eduardo Rios, and other leading researchers. While no formal scientific awards are listed, his work has been cited extensively in journals like Biophysical Journal and Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology . Collaborations include researchers such as Dirk Gillespie, Eduardo Rios, and Michael Fill. His laboratory at Rush University investigates SR calcium dynamics using electrophysiology and fluorescence detection methods. The full NCBI bibliography and Scopus profile are accessible via institutional links.

David KayeView profile

Adjunct Professor

• Heart Failure
• Cardiology
• Transplantation
• +4 more

Professor David Kaye is an NHMRC Senior Principal Research Fellow and Adjunct Professor at Monash University, serving as Director of the Department of Cardiology at The Alfred Hospital and Head of the Heart Failure Research group at the Baker Institute. His qualifications include: MBBS PhD FRACP (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians) FACC (Fellow of the American College of Cardiology) A leading cardiologist specializing in heart failure and transplantation, Professor Kaye's research focuses on HFpEF pathophysiology, investigating mechanisms involving aging, hypertension, and gut microbiome interactions. His work has identified novel therapeutic targets including oral treatments for end-stage heart failure and device-based interventions for diastolic dysfunction. With over 420 peer-reviewed publications, his research demonstrates consistent emphasis on translational cardiovascular science, particularly gut-heart axis mechanisms, sex-specific pathophysiology in heart failure, and innovative device therapies. Recent work highlights microbiome modulation for hypertension prevention and transcatheter shunt technologies for HFpEF management. His scientific recognition includes: NHMRC Senior Principal Research Fellow Eureka Prize for Medical Research Translation (2012) RT Hall Prize, Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (2007) Eric Sussman Prize for Research Excellence, College of Physicians (2003) As a Monash University supervisor, Professor Kaye mentors cardiovascular researchers while leading commercial translation through co-founding Osprey Medical and Cardiac Dimensions Inc. His NHMRC fellowship supports ongoing clinical trials of novel HFpEF therapies, with intellectual property generating significant clinical impact through medical advisory roles at Osprey Medical and Cardiora Pty Ltd. He directs the Heart Failure Research group at the Baker Institute and the Alfred Hospital's Cardiology Department, where his team integrates clinical investigation with experimental models to develop next-generation heart failure treatments.

Jay WilliamsView profile

Professor

• Muscle Physiology
• Biochemistry
• Human Performance
• +3 more

Jay Williams is a Professor in the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). He also holds an Adjunct Professor position at Ohio University's Coaching Education Program. His research focuses on muscle physiology, biochemistry, and athlete monitoring using wearable technologies like GPS, accelerometry, and gyroscopic devices. Collaborations include Virginia Tech's Athletic Department and professional sports teams, with recent studies on women’s soccer and pole vault athletes. Williams holds a Ph.D. in Exercise Science from Texas A&M University (1988), an M.S. in Exercise Physiology from Louisiana State University (1985), and a B.S. in Mathematics and Physical Education from Louisiana University (1983). His career spans over 35 years in academia, with roles progressing from Assistant Professor (1988–1993) to Associate Professor (1994–2004) before achieving full Professor status in 2004. His research emphasizes skeletal muscle mechanisms, fatigue, and performance optimization. Recent work leverages wearable tech to assess athlete training loads, injury risks, and rehabilitation protocols. Key studies include gait symmetry analysis using IMU devices and evaluating surface impacts on soccer injuries. Williams has authored books on kinesiology, soccer nutrition, and research methodology. His 150+ publications span journals like Science and Medicine in Football and Translational Sports Medicine , focusing on sports science, biomechanics, and muscle physiology. He actively consults with collegiate and professional sports programs to translate research into practical applications. Notable collaborations include: Virginia Tech Athletics Department Ohio University’s Sport Pedagogy Program Professional sports teams (unspecified)

Thomas BalshawView profile

Lecturer

• Neuromuscular Physiology
• Muscle and Tendon Morphology
• Resistance Training Adaptations
• +4 more

Dr. Thomas Balshaw is a Lecturer in Kinesiology, Strength, and Conditioning at Loughborough University, where he has held his current position since 2021. Previously, he worked as a Post-doctoral Research Associate at the same institution from 2014 to 2021. His research focuses on neuromuscular physiology, muscle and tendon morphology, and adaptations to resistance training. Balshaw earned a BSc (Hons) in Exercise Science from the University of Cumbria (2006–2009) and a PhD in Neuromuscular Physiology from the University of Stirling (2009–2013). His work explores topics such as muscle hypertrophy specificity, motor unit behavior during rapid contractions, tendon remodelling, and the biomechanics of elite sprinters. He has contributed to studies funded by charities and industry partners, investigating interventions like bioactive collagen peptides in resistance training and non-invasive muscle assessment techniques. Recent articles highlight his expertise in decoding motor unit activity through high-density EMG, analyzing muscle adaptations in strongman athletes, and understanding sex-based differences in sprinting physiology. Balshaw’s research integrates biomechanics, electrophysiology, and nutritional interventions to advance knowledge of human performance and injury prevention.

A. Russell TuplingView profile

Professor

• Physiology
• Nutrition
• Muscle Metabolism
• +7 more

A. Russell Tupling is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences at the University of Waterloo . His research focuses on muscle physiology, calcium transport dynamics, and metabolic regulation, particularly in the context of muscular dystrophy, adaptive thermogenesis, and exercise science. He can be reached at rtupling@uwaterloo.ca or via phone at 519-888-4567 ext. 43652 in B.C. Matthews Hall (BMH) 3030. Research Interests: Physiology Nutrition Muscle Metabolism Calcium Transport Adaptive Thermogenesis Muscular Dystrophy Tupling’s recent publications highlight his work on SERCA pumps, sarcolipin, and phospholamban in skeletal and cardiac muscle function. His studies explore mechanisms of muscle fatigue, atrophy, and regeneration, with implications for metabolic disorders and therapeutic interventions. He leads the SERCA Pumps, Muscle Metabolism & Physiology Lab , which investigates the role of calcium cycling in energy expenditure and muscle adaptation.

Julio VergaraView profile

Professor

• Muscle Physiology
• Biophysics
• Calcium Signaling
• +4 more

Julio Vergara is a Professor of Physiology in the School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he leads research on the biophysics of excitation-contraction coupling in skeletal muscle using advanced optical and electrophysiological methodologies. His laboratory specializes in calcium signaling dynamics at triadic junctions, having demonstrated double-peaked Ca 2+ microdomains in mammalian muscle fibers and extended these findings to neuromuscular junctions. Current work focuses on developing high-resolution imaging and flash-photolysis techniques to investigate membrane potential roles in excitation-contraction coupling and neurotransmitter release, with implications for muscular dystrophy pathophysiology. Analysis of his 2003-2011 publications reveals consistent focus on calcium dynamics in skeletal muscle, particularly transverse tubular system function and sarcoplasmic reticulum interactions. His work frequently employs two-photon imaging and spot detection in normal and mdx mouse models, contributing significantly to understanding ion conductances, dystrophy mechanisms, and novel molecular expression techniques. Dr. Vergara directs the Cell Physiology Imaging Group, which pioneers methodologies for studying cellular physiology in muscle and nerve cells through interdisciplinary approaches combining biophysics, molecular biology, and advanced imaging technologies.

• Veterinary Medicine
• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Veterinary Education
• +4 more

Dr. Karen E MacEachern is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physiology Ageing & Welfare at the University of Glasgow. Her academic focus spans veterinary medicine, cardiovascular physiology, and educational research. She has contributed to advancements in veterinary ultrasound imaging, particularly in equine and canine applications, and has explored topics such as calcium signaling in cardiac myocytes and infectious disease ecology. Research interests include equine health, wildlife management through experiential learning, and decolonizing veterinary curricula. Her work bridges clinical practice and educational innovation, addressing sustainability in teaching practices and communication skills training for veterinary students. Collaborative efforts have involved studies on parasitic diseases like Neospora caninum and the role of proteins like FKBP12.6 in cardiac function. Publications span over two decades, with recent contributions emphasizing curriculum reform and earlier works focusing on molecular mechanisms in heart physiology and equine pathology. No scientific awards are explicitly listed in the provided materials.