Find Academic Supervisors

Geoff FindlayView profile

Associate Professor

• Genetics
• Genomics
• Evolutionary Biology
• +3 more

Geoff Findlay is an Associate Professor in the Biology Department at the College of the Holy Cross. His research focuses on the function and evolution of proteins involved in reproduction using Drosophila melanogaster as a model system. His lab, located in O'Neil 105 of the Fauci Integrated Science Complex, investigates de novo gene evolution and reproductive mechanisms. Findlay's work has been supported by National Science Foundation grants, including a CAREER award and an RUI grant. He advises undergraduate researchers such as Emily Gualdino, Kerry McDermott, and Brenna McCormick, among others. Findlay earned his Ph.D. from the University of Washington and has published extensively on topics like seminal proteins, gene evolution, and reproductive biology. His lab collaborates with institutions like Prof. Alexis Hill's lab and participates in conferences such as the Allied Genetics Conference. Contact him via gfindlay@holycross.edu or visit the Findlay Lab's Twitter account @FindlayLab for updates. Key research themes include the molecular mechanisms of de novo gene emergence, protein interactions in reproductive systems, and evolutionary adaptations in Drosophila. Findlay's work bridges genetics, genomics, and developmental biology to uncover fundamental principles of reproductive biology and evolutionary processes.

Perla AyalaView profile

Associate Professor

• Tissue Engineering
• Bioengineering
• Stem Cell Therapy
• +5 more

Dr. Perla Ayala is an Associate Professor in the Biomedical Engineering Department at California State University, Long Beach , where she has been since Fall 2016. Her research focuses on engineered therapeutic systems for tissue regeneration, integrating microstructural design and stem cell therapies . Her academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Bioengineering from the University of California, Berkeley and San Francisco (2011), followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School and the Wyss Institute (2012-2016). Research Trends : Dr. Ayala's publications span cardiac repair microstructures , immune-modulating tissue systems , and anti-infective biomaterials . Key themes include 3D biomaterial scaffolding , stem cell delivery optimization , and topography-driven cellular responses . Current Status : Contactable at perla.ayala@csulb.edu , her Office Hours indicate no instruction for Spring 2024.

Syed Y AbbasView profile

Associate Professor

• Neuroscience
• Retinal Physiology
• Behavioral Neuroscience
• +4 more

Syed Y Abbas is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at Central Connecticut State University, specializing in neurophysiological research with a focus on retinal and thalamic systems. His work bridges basic neuroscience with behavioral studies and translational applications. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine (2013) Master of Science (MS) in Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine (2009) Master of Science (MS) in Biology, New York University (2004) Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology and Chemistry, New York University (2002) Dr. Abbas investigates retinal physiology and the impact of visual cues on neural and behavioral systems. His research explores: Neurotransmitter dynamics (particularly serotonin) Ion channel function in neuronal excitability Behavioral responses to light stimuli in crayfish Retinal ganglion cell signaling mechanisms Thalamocortical circuit dynamics Recent publications highlight his work on light-induced behavioral changes, HCN channel regulation, and retinal neurophysiology. His methodologies integrate behavioral studies, electrophysiology, and advanced imaging. Excellence in Teaching Award - Nomination (2024) Excellence in Teaching Award - Honor Roll (2021) Multiple AAUP research grants (2019-2023) Curriculum development grants

Alison MiyamotoView profile

Associate Professor

• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology
• +3 more

Alison Miyamoto is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Science at California State University, Fullerton. She holds a PhD from Stanford University and a BS from MIT. Her research focuses on molecular mechanisms of Notch receptor signaling and the developmental roles of elastic fiber proteins like MAGP2 and MAGP-1. She regularly teaches courses in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Developmental Biology, and Stem Cell Biology. Her research explores non-ECM ligands for integrins, proprotein convertase regulation of MAGP2 binding, and Notch1 receptor activation dynamics. Key findings include the role of MAGP proteins in Notch signaling and the regulated cleavage of elastic microfibril components. Dr. Miyamoto has advised multiple student researchers including Donovan, Perez, and Hogrebe. Her work has been published in high-impact journals like Journal of Cell Biology and Matrix Biology . She maintains an active research lab focusing on protein-protein interactions in developmental and disease contexts.

Evan PrattView profile

Assistant Professor

• Fluorescent Sensor Development
• Metal Ion Biochemistry
• Cell Signaling
• +6 more

Dr. Evan Pratt is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Northern Michigan University. He received his B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Lyman Briggs College (Michigan State University) in 2010, followed by a Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology from Purdue University in 2017. His postdoctoral training at the University of Colorado Boulder's BioFrontiers Institute focused on genetically encoded fluorescent Zn²+ sensors. Since joining NMU in Fall 2020, he has taught advanced biochemistry courses including CH 450, CH 452, and CH 454, while leading an active research program involving undergraduate scientists. Research Focus: The Pratt Lab specializes in developing cutting-edge fluorescent sensors for metal ions, particularly Mg²+. Using advanced microscopy, they investigate subcellular Mg²+ distribution, regulatory mechanisms, and interactions with cellular metabolism. Current work builds on prior research involving Zn²+ sensors and expands into collaborations with campus research groups. Notable Contributions: Dr. Pratt has published extensively on calcium and zinc signaling, including tools for zinc cell biology, vesicular targeting signals, and cAMP-ERK interactions in pancreatic cells. His recent work explores novel Mg²+ sensors and expands into cancer metabolism through IDH mutation studies. Academic Engagement: Dr. Pratt's research bridges molecular pharmacology and cellular biochemistry, with applications in diabetes research and cancer biology. He actively involves students in his research program, focusing on real-world scientific exploration.

Zhongrong R. LuoView profile

Assistant Professor

• Neuroanatomy
• Ultrastructural Biology
• Pineal Gland Research
• +4 more

Zhongrong R. Luo, MD, PhD serves as an Assistant Professor in the Anatomy Division of Pathology and Human Anatomy at Loma Linda University School of Medicine. His academic foundation includes an MD from Sichuan Medical College (Chengdu, China, 1970) and a PhD in Anatomy from Loma Linda University (1988), followed by postdoctoral training at Ohio State University (1989-1991). Dr. Luo's research centers on neuroanatomical ultrastructure with specialized focus on the pineal gland. His work employs advanced electron microscopy and histochemical techniques to investigate cellular organelles, synaptic structures, and enzyme localization in both rat and guinea pig models. Key methodological contributions include novel approaches for organelle co-localization and specialized staining chambers for electron microscopy. Analysis of his publication record (1984-1996) reveals progressive technical sophistication from foundational pineal gland morphology studies toward complex intracellular co-localization methodologies. His work spans neuroanatomy, cell biology, and histochemistry with consistent emphasis on subcellular structures in neuroendocrine systems. Dr. Luo maintains active laboratory operations focused on ultrastructural neurobiology, though specific team compositions are not documented in available sources. His technical innovations in microscopy instrumentation continue to support cellular imaging research within the Anatomy Division.

Adriana Patricia TagliaferroView profile

Lecturer

• Neuroscience
• Substance Abuse Neurobiology
• Parkinson's Disease
• +3 more

Dr. Adriana Patricia Tagliaferro is a Lecturer at The Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology, Kean University, where she teaches undergraduate biology courses. She holds a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Buenos Aires and conducted research at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH/NIDA) and Columbia University. Her primary affiliations include the Teen Experiences, Emotions & Neuroendocrinology Laboratory, where she contributes to projects on adolescent neurodevelopment. Dr. Tagliaferro's research focuses on: Neurobiological mechanisms of substance abuse and its impact on brain structure/function Pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease and therapeutic strategies Cannabinoid receptor neurobiology across multiple brain regions Neuroanatomical and histological analyses using advanced microscopy Her 15 most recent publications (2017-2008) demonstrate consistent focus on cannabinoid neuropharmacology (particularly CB2 receptors), Parkinson's disease models, and behavioral neurobiology. Key trends include: Mechanistic studies of CB2 receptors in dopamine neurons and psychiatric behaviors Neurodegenerative processes in Parkinson's models (axonal degeneration, LRRK2 mutations) Neurotrophic factor signaling and neuronal survival mechanisms Ultrastructural mapping of cannabinoid systems using advanced techniques Dr. Tagliaferro serves as Associate Editor for Advances in Drug and Alcohol Research and teaches the following courses: BIO 3403/3404: Anatomy and Physiology I & II BIO 3450: Biological Aspects of Aging BIO 3100: Medical Terminology BIO 3406: Neuroscience BIO 3317: Infectious Diseases BIO 4970: Seminar in Integrative Biology

Andreas PüschelView profile

Professor

• Neuroscience
• Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology
• +3 more

Prof. Dr. Andreas Püschel is a Professor at the University of Münster's Institute of Integrative Cell Biology and Physiology, leading the Püschel Lab focused on cellular mechanisms of neuronal differentiation. He contributes to the Cells in Motion (CiM) initiative, serving on the Management Board and the CiM-IMPRS Graduate Programme. His research emphasizes axon formation, neuronal polarity, and developmental mechanisms in the neocortex. Key topics include Rap GTPase signaling, mitochondrial dynamics in axons, and receptor-mediated axon guidance. His work bridges molecular mechanisms with cellular and systems-level neuroscience. Recent studies reveal his lab's focus on kinases (SadA/B), GEF factors (Arhgef7), and LKB1 activation pathways. Major outputs include insights into axon extension defects in Igf1R/InsR mutants and Sema3A/Plexin-A1 signaling in axon suppression. His work spans from modeling vesicle transport dynamics to tumor suppression via phosphatidic acid interactions.

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Structural Proteomics
• +6 more

Irene Diaz Moreno is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Plant Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Seville, holding joint appointments in both the Faculty of Biology and Faculty of Medicine. With a prolific research career spanning over two decades, she has established herself as a leading expert in cytochrome c research, structural proteomics, and programmed cell death mechanisms. Her research interests focus on the multifaceted roles of cytochrome c beyond its classical function in mitochondrial respiration. Dr. Diaz Moreno investigates how this protein regulates nuclear processes, DNA damage response, and programmed cell death through interactions with histone chaperones, RNA binding proteins, and other molecular partners. Her work particularly examines how post-translational modifications, especially phosphorylation, alter cytochrome c's structure, dynamics, and functions, revealing its dual role as both a pro-death and pro-survival factor depending on cellular context. Through sophisticated biophysical approaches including NMR, X-ray crystallography, and computational methods, her laboratory has uncovered novel mechanisms by which cytochrome c functions as a master regulator in cellular homeostasis. Recent work has expanded to studying protein-RNA interactions, stress granule formation, and the role of metal ions in protein multimerization, demonstrating the breadth of her scientific contributions. Dr. Diaz Moreno has secured substantial research funding through numerous projects, including those from the European Union (COST Actions, MOSBRI), Spanish national programs (BFU, PGC), and regional Andalusian initiatives (P11, P08). Her leadership as Principal Investigator on multiple projects highlights her significant standing in the scientific community. Her laboratory, part of the Structural and Functional Proteomics research group (PROTEO), maintains active collaborations with international institutions across Europe and beyond. She has mentored numerous PhD students and postdoctoral researchers who have become co-authors on her extensive publication record, contributing to the vibrant research environment she has cultivated at the University of Seville.

• Spatial Biotechnology
• Immunology
• Cancer Research
• +3 more

Xavier Rovira Clavé is a researcher at the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), leading the Spatial Biotechnology department. His work focuses on developing innovative spatial multi-omics technologies to study complex biological systems, particularly in tumor microenvironments, host-microbiome interactions, and immune responses. He is a co-author on pioneering studies in multiplexed imaging, spatial serology, and CRISPR-based single-cell analyses. His research bridges engineering and life sciences, with applications in cancer immunotherapy, infectious disease modeling, and diagnostic tool development. Key expertise includes spatial omics frameworks, ion beam tomography, and bead-based multiplexed assays. Collaborations span academic and industrial partners, notably in spin-off ventures like LUMIRIS, which commercializes IBEC innovations. His lab's tools enable high-resolution mapping of biomolecules and cellular dynamics within tissues, advancing precision medicine and translational research. Notable contributions include the CRISPR-TOF platform for immune signaling analysis and expanded vacuum-stable gels for histopathology. He actively contributes to the IBEC's mission of translating bioengineering into clinical and industrial solutions.

Angus JohnstonView profile

Associate Professor

• Drug Delivery Systems
• Nanomaterials Assembly
• Cellular Imaging
• +3 more

Angus Johnston is an ARC Future Fellow and Associate Professor in Drug Delivery Disposition and Dynamics at Monash University. His research develops advanced nanomaterial systems for improved drug and vaccine delivery, focusing on nanoparticle-cell interactions, mRNA therapeutics, and targeted delivery mechanisms. Recent work includes nanobody-functionalized nanorods for cellular delivery, pH-responsive nanoparticles for cancer therapy, and HDL-based vaccine adjuvants. His group employs quantitative assays to analyze intracellular trafficking and endosomal escape, advancing precision nanomedicine.

• Molecular Neuroscience
• Neuroglia Biology
• BDNF Gene Regulation
• +4 more

Indrek Koppel is an Assistant Professor at Tallinn University of Technology's School of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology. His research focuses on molecular neuroscience and neuroglia biology, particularly BDNF gene regulation and astrocyte signaling. He holds a PhD from Tallinn University of Technology (2014) and a postdoc from the Weizmann Institute of Science (2020). Education: BSc Biology (Tartu University, 2005) MSc Gene Technology (Tallinn University of Technology, 2007) PhD Molecular Biology (Tallinn University of Technology, 2014) Postdoc, Weizmann Institute of Science (2015–2020) Research Interests: Investigates BDNF regulation in non-neuronal cells, astrocyte-neuron interactions, and translational control mechanisms. His work bridges molecular mechanisms with neurodegenerative disease models and therapeutic strategies. Recent Article Trends: Focus on BDNF regulatory elements, astrocyte biology, and translational neuroscience. Utilizes transgenic models and advanced omics approaches to study gene expression dynamics. Awards: 2017 Rising Tide Postdoctoral Fellowship 2016 Koshland Prize (Weizmann Institute) 2007 Artur Lind Prize (Estonian Genome Foundation) Advising & Grants: Supervised 6 master's students. Principal investigator for projects like 'Probing Neuron-Glia Interactions' (€384k) and 'Decentralised Digital Twin Era' (€551k). Labs/Teams: Leads research in neuroglial systems biology and collaborates with international teams on translational neuroscience projects.

• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology
• Protease Research
• +3 more

Florencia Cabrera Cabrera is a Researcher at the Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Science, Tallinn University of Technology. Her career includes roles as Post-Doc Researcher (2021–2024) and Postgraduate Researcher at Christian Albrechts Universität zu Kiel and Technische Universität Dresden (2016–2019). She holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Christian Albrechts Universität (2019) and an M.Sc. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the Institut Pasteur of Montevideo (2013). Her research focuses on molecular mechanisms involving intramembrane proteases (SPPL family), BDNF regulation in non-neuronal cells, and interactions between Trypanosoma cruzi and host cells via extracellular vesicles. She has led projects on neuron-glia communication and astrocyte regulatory elements, funded by Estonian Research Council grants totaling 528,800 EUR. Key achievements include 14 peer-reviewed publications, international travel grants (2023), and distinguished poster awards (2022). She currently co-supervises doctoral and master's research on cerebral cortex neuron-glia interactions. Her work bridges molecular biology, immunology, and neurobiology with applications in infectious disease and cellular signaling pathways.

• Muscle Development
• Zebrafish Genetics
• Membrane Biology
• +5 more

Dr. Tom Hall is a Researcher at the Institute for Molecular Bioscience , University of Queensland. His work focuses on muscle development , caveolae regulation , and genetic modeling in zebrafish . Doctor of Philosophy, University of St Andrews Research interests include: Muscle Biology: Mechanisms of muscle homeostasis, transverse tubule development, and muscular dystrophy models. Caveolae Dynamics: Role in mechanoprotection, oxidative stress response, and lipid regulation. Genomic Tools: Cre-Lox systems, proximity labeling, and large genomic deletions in zebrafish. Recent work trends emphasize: Targeting the minor spliceosome for broad cancer therapy Mechanisms of pro-ferroptotic lipid signaling in membrane stability Advancements in zebrafish transgenics for disease modeling Structural characterization of Cavin1 complexes using nanobodies Current funding includes: NHMRC IDEAS Grant (2025-2028): Scalable methodology for evaluating genetic variants of uncertain significance Australian Functional Genomics Network Grant (2022-2026): CAV3 variant analysis Grants and projects: ARC Discovery Project (2020-2023): Molecular dissection of membrane domain formation NHMRC Project Grant (2016-2019): Transverse tubule development in skeletal muscle Dr. Hall supervises PhD students as an Associate Advisor in collaboration with Professor Robert Parton and Dr. Harriet Lo. His lab specializes in: Membrane Biology: Caveolae structure, Cavin protein interactions Genetic Modeling: Zebrafish systems for muscular disorders and drug delivery

• Plant Molecular Biology
• Gene Regulation
• Arogenate Dehydratase Family
• +1 more

Susanne Kohalmi is Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at Western University, specializing in plant molecular biology. Her laboratory investigates the arogenate dehydratase gene family in Arabidopsis thaliana, focusing on enzyme function diversity and regulatory mechanisms. Research explores enzyme complex formation, subcellular localization patterns, and post-translational modifications within phenylalanine biosynthesis pathways. Current projects examine tissue-specific responses to metabolic changes and environmental stimuli. Teaches undergraduate genetics and graduate-level genome analysis courses. Supervises multiple graduate students in molecular plant biology projects and hosts international collaborators including researchers from Agriculture Canada.