Find Academic Supervisors

John F Valliant is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at McMaster University. His research focuses on radiopharmaceutical chemistry, molecular imaging, and targeted therapies, particularly in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics. He co-founded Fusion Pharmaceuticals, a company acquired by AstraZeneca for $2.4 billion (US), which specializes in targeted alpha therapy for cancer treatment. His work includes developing radiolabeled imaging agents for prostate cancer (e.g., [18F]DCFPyL), targeted alpha therapies (e.g., FPI-1434), and bioorthogonal chemistry strategies for pretargeted imaging. Valliant has contributed to advancements in photoacoustic imaging, SPECT/PET modalities, and theranostic agents for conditions like bacterial infections and bone diseases. Key projects include the Phase II clinical trial using 18F-DCFPyL PET-MRI for oligometastatic prostate cancer and studies on individualized dosimetry in Lu-177 therapies. He has pioneered platforms for radiolabeled antibody-recruiting molecules and fluorous-phase chemistry for high-specific-activity probes. Valliant’s research bridges disciplines, integrating chemistry, biology, and clinical applications to address unmet medical needs in oncology and diagnostic imaging.

• Radiopharmaceutical Chemistry
• Nuclear Medicine
• Molecular Imaging
• +5 more

Dr. Rebecca San Gil is a Lecturer at the School of Medical Sciences , University of Sydney, Australia. She leads the NeuroMolecular Discovery Group within the Neuroscience theme and is a member of the Charles Perkins Centre . Her research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases such as motor neuron disease (MND) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) , with an emphasis on protein aggregation, stress responses, and therapeutic discovery. PhD, University of Wollongong (2018) Postdoctoral Research, Queensland Brain Institute (2018–2025) Endeavour Research Fellow (University College London) Her research spans molecular biology , neurosciences , and biochemistry , integrating techniques like genome-wide CRISPR screening , multi-omics analysis , and translational research . Key themes include the role of molecular chaperones , heat shock response , and protein folding dynamics in mitigating neurodegeneration. Dr. San Gil’s recent publications (2016–2025) highlight her work on TDP-43 pathology , heat shock proteins , and therapeutic strategies across ALS/FTD models. She has received awards such as the FightMND Early Career Research Fellow and the Sydney Dementia Network Future Research Leader Award (Travel Support Scheme) in 2025. Scientific Awards : FightMND Early Career Research Fellow, Sydney Dementia Network Future Research Leader Award (2025) Dr. San Gil actively mentors researchers like Celine CHYE and collaborates with institutions globally. Her team welcomes new members to explore neurodegenerative disease biology and therapeutic discovery .

• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Motor Neuron Disease (MND)
• Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
• +7 more

Caryl E. Sortwell is a Professor of Translational Neuroscience and Edwin A. Brophy Endowed Chair in Central Nervous System Disorders at Michigan State University's College of Human Medicine. She leads the Sortwell Lab within the Neuroscience Program and Grand Rapids Research Center, focusing on Parkinson's disease (PD) therapeutics. Education : B.S. in Psychology/Pre-medicine (University of Illinois, 1987), Ph.D. in Anatomy and Cell Biology/Neurobiology (University of Illinois at Chicago, 1994) Positions : Assistant/Associate Professor at Rush University Medical Center (1997-2005), Associate Professor at University of Cincinnati (2005-2009), Professor at MSU College of Human Medicine (2009-present) Her research investigates alpha-synuclein pathology in PD using preformed fibril models to study neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, and therapeutic interventions. She explores neurotrophic factors like BDNF, gene therapies targeting CaV1.3 channels, and deep brain stimulation mechanisms. Her work emphasizes precision medicine approaches to optimize treatment outcomes. Scientific contributions include methodological advancements in neurochemical sensing with diamond electrodes and viral vector delivery systems. Key collaborations include research with Dr. Joe Patterson on alpha-synuclein genetic consequences. Technical Expertise : Immunohistochemistry, stereotactic surgery, in vivo neurotoxicant models, protein analysis (Western blot/ELISA), droplet digital PCR, and neuroinflammatory profiling

• Parkinson's Disease
• Neurotrophic Factors
• Alpha-Synuclein Pathology
• +4 more

Balázs Rada is an Associate Professor in the Department of Infectious Diseases at the University of Georgia's College of Veterinary Medicine. His research focuses on mechanisms of respiratory innate immunity, particularly in cystic fibrosis lung disease and host-pathogen interactions involving pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and influenza virus. Key projects include investigating neutrophil biology, reactive oxygen species in airway defenses, and therapeutic modulation of innate immunity. His lab, the Rada Laboratory, is based in Athens, Georgia, and emphasizes translational research in respiratory disease pathogenesis. Research interests span cystic fibrosis airway inflammation, antimicrobial therapies, and the role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in lung diseases. Collaborative efforts aim to develop novel treatments targeting innate immune dysfunction.

• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology
• Bacteriology
• +7 more

Hyun-soon Chong is a Professor of Chemistry at the Lewis College of Science and Letters , Illinois Institute of Technology. The Chong group focuses on interdisciplinary research spanning organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry, and nuclear medicine to develop targeted therapeutics for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Education : B.S. from Kyung Hee University, Ph.D. from the University of North Texas Research interests include: Organic synthesis using aziridinium ions Development of bifunctional chelators for radiotherapy/imaging Bioconjugate chemistry for antibody-drug conjugates Targeted cancer therapies and diagnostics Nuclear medicine applications with isotopes like Cu-64, Y-90, and Lu-177 Key publication trends show expertise in chelation chemistry, bioconjugation, and radiopharmaceutical development. The group has advanced aziridinium ion-based methodologies and created novel agents with preclinical efficacy. Labs/teams: The Chong group specializes in synthetic strategies for enantiomerically enriched molecules and biomedical chelators. Contact: chong@illinoistech.edu

• Organic synthesis
• Medicinal chemistry
• Bioconjugate chemistry
• +7 more

Dr Amin Ardestani , Senior Lecturer in Metabolic Signaling at the Biomedical Institute for Multimorbidity (BIM), Hull York Medical School (HYMS) , specializes in unraveling molecular mechanisms of pancreatic β-cell failure in diabetes. His research program identifies novel therapeutic targets through signal transduction studies in metabolic disorders. Bachelor's in Biology, Tarbiat Moalem University (2004) Master's in Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (2007) PhD in Biology, University of Bremen (2013) Junior Group Leader at University of Bremen (2014-2023) Research focuses on Hippo and mTOR signaling pathways in β-cell biology, autoimmunity, and regeneration. His work bridges mechanistic biology with drug discovery for diabetes, with significant findings on PHLPP1/2 phosphatases and MST1/2 kinases. Recent publications highlight therapeutic strategies for β-cell protection , including small molecule inhibitors (e.g., MST1/2 inhibitors) and metabolic enzyme modulation (LDHA). Collaborative studies explore SARS-CoV-2 interactions with pancreatic cells and cross-talk between acinar and β-cells in diabetes. 2019 JDRF Advanced Postdoctoral Fellowship 2018 Impulse grant & Career Advancement Award 2017 Early Investigators awards (Endocrine Society, EFSD/Lilly Programme) 2014 Albert Renold Fellowship & Bremer Studienpreis Professional roles include Editorial Board Member at Scientific Reports and Associate Editor at Frontiers in Endocrinology . He reviews grants for DFG, Diabetes UK, and ISF, and evaluates manuscripts for top-tier journals like Cell Metabolism and Nature Communications.

• Metabolic Signaling
• Pancreatic Islet Biology
• Signal Transduction Pathways
• +4 more

Ismene Petrakis is a Professor of Psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine and Director of the Mental Health Service Line at VA Connecticut Healthcare System since 2010. She also leads the ACGME-accredited Addiction Psychiatry Residency program at Yale and serves as Principal Investigator for NIAAA- and NIDA-funded training grants . Her clinical and research focus bridges alcohol dependence , comorbid psychiatric disorders , and veterans' health . Research Pillars : Pharmacotherapies for dually diagnosed patients Neurobiological mechanisms of alcoholism PTSD-alcohol comorbidity Genetic risk in substance use Methodological Expertise : Multicenter clinical trials Neurotransmitter system analysis Population-based epidemiology Translational neuroscience Key Publications (2024-2025) : Investigations into GLP1R gene expression in kidney disease Dexmedetomidine for comorbid alcohol-PTSD Cognitive training combinations for alcohol use disorder PTSD treatment effects on neurobiological markers Chronic pain-alcohol use syndemic Collaborative Networks : Yale-Drug use, Addiction, and HIV prevention Research Scholars Neuroscience Research Training Program Collaboration with Department of Anesthesiology

• Alcoholism
• Comorbidity
• Neurobiology
• +5 more

Jacob Young, MD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurological Surgery at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine and a Principal Investigator in the UCSF Brain Tumor Center. His clinical practice focuses on neurosurgical management of adult brain tumors including gliomas, metastatic tumors, and meningiomas, utilizing advanced brain mapping techniques to preserve critical motor, language, and sensory functions during resection. Dr. Young's educational background includes a BS in Neuroscience from Duke University (2012), an MD from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine where he was elected to Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society (2017), and a neurosurgery residency at UCSF (2017-2024). His research program integrates laboratory investigations with clinical trials to address fundamental challenges in brain tumor treatment. His primary research interests center on understanding glioblastoma immune microenvironment dynamics and developing innovative therapeutic strategies. Key focus areas include: First-in-human clinical trials of novel immunotherapies Focused ultrasound-mediated blood-brain barrier disruption to enhance drug delivery Longitudinal molecular profiling of tumor evolution during treatment AI-driven tools for patient care navigation and clinical trial assessment Prospective outcomes research through the RANO resect group and NeuroPoint Alliance His work bridges fundamental tumor biology with translational applications to overcome treatment resistance. Analysis of Dr. Young's 15 most recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong emphasis on surgical innovation, tumor immunology, and molecular characterization. Key trends include: development of prognostic classification systems for resection extent, investigation of glioma-neuronal circuit interactions driving immunosuppression, and optimization of drug delivery strategies. His collaborative work within the RANO consortium establishes evidence-based surgical guidelines while his lab's focus on microenvironmental factors informs next-generation immunotherapies. Dr. Young has received significant recognition including: Chan-Zuckerberg Physician Scientist Fellowship (2021-2022) ASCO Young Investigator Award (2022-2023) Andrew J. Lockhart Focused Ultrasound Fellowship (2023) Multiple Harold Rosegay Teaching Awards from UCSF Howard Naffziger Award for Clinical Excellence His research is supported by NIH, NCI, Focused Ultrasound Foundation, and AANS grants. As lab director, Dr. Young mentors a diverse team including PhD candidates like Edward Valenzuela (DSCB program) and specialists in immunology and neuro-oncology. His lab participates in the RANO resect group, ENCRAM research program, and NeuroPoint Alliance to advance clinical protocols. Current projects include developing intraoperative focused ultrasound prototypes, single-cell analysis of tumor evolution, and AI tools for patient navigation through care pathways. Future work focuses on translating microenvironment discoveries into combination therapies targeting treatment resistance mechanisms.

• Neuro-oncology
• Glioblastoma
• Brain Tumor Immunology
• +6 more

Pam J. McLean, Ph.D. is a Professor of Neuroscience and Consultant in the Department of Neuroscience at Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida . She leads the Neurobiology of Parkinson's Disease and Related Disorders Laboratory , focusing on the molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. Primary Appointment: Consultant, Department of Neuroscience Institution: Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL Research Affiliations: APDA Center for Advanced Research, Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCaTS), Discovery and Translation Labs: Brain Research, Lewy Body Dementia Center Without Walls Dr. McLean’s research centers on alpha-synuclein , a key protein involved in neurodegeneration. Her lab investigates how alpha-synuclein misfolds, aggregates, and propagates in a prion-like manner across neurons, contributing to disease progression. She employs human induced pluripotent stem cell models, viral vector-based systems, and animal models to study these processes. Key research themes include: Prion-like propagation of alpha-synuclein Biomarker discovery using extracellular vesicles in blood Copathologies in neurodegenerative diseases Development of gene therapies and small molecules targeting alpha-synuclein Her recent publications highlight work on alpha-synuclein seeding assays, transcriptional differences between Lewy body disease and Alzheimer’s, and novel methods for isolating plasma-derived extracellular vesicles for diagnostic use. These reflect a strong trend toward translational neuroscience, aiming to bridge molecular insights with clinical applications. Dr. McLean is actively funded through multiple NIH grants, including from the National Institute on Aging and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. She serves as Principal Investigator on projects related to functional assessment of pathological species in Lewy body dementia and contributes to the Mayo Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Her lab is committed to patient-centered research and training the next generation of neuroscientists, offering postdoctoral fellowships and research education programs. She collaborates extensively with experts in neuropathology, neurology, and translational biology.

• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Parkinson's Disease
• Dementia with Lewy Bodies
• +12 more

Patrick M. Reagan, M.D. is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology at the University of Rochester Medical Center , affiliated with the Wilmot Cancer Institute . He specializes in clinical care and research for Non-Hodgkin and Hodgkin lymphomas , focusing on aggressive B-cell lymphomas , autologous stem cell transplantation , and cellular therapy including CAR T-cells . His research emphasizes clinical trials in lymphoma treatment, particularly for large B-cell lymphoma and mantle cell lymphoma . Recent publications highlight advancements in CAR T-cell therapy , bridging radiotherapy , and eligibility criteria for trials. Scientific Awards : Wilmot Cancer Institute Inspiration Award (2022) Lymphoma Research Foundation Clinical Research Mentoring Program (2018) American Society of Hematology Clinical Research Training Institute (2015) John and Carol Bennett Travel Fellowship Award (2014) Alpha Omega Alpha (2009) Dr. Reagan is part of a multidisciplinary team at Wilmot Cancer Institute, including hematology and oncology , radiation oncology , and clinical trials office professionals, ensuring comprehensive patient care.

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Cellular Therapy
• +3 more

Dr. Boubker Zaaimi is a Lecturer in Neuroscience at Aston University, affiliated with the School of Life & Health Sciences under the College of Health and Life Sciences. His 15+ years of experience focus on implanting electrodes in animal models (rodents to primates) to study brain activity modulation, particularly in stroke and epilepsy contexts. He specializes in brain-machine interfaces, optogenetics, and closed-loop protocols to regulate neural activity. Key projects include the CANDO project (Newcastle University) and collaborations with DARPA and industry partners like Autifony Therapeutics. His research uses magnetoencephalography (MEG) to advance human brain activity recording and modulation techniques. Employment History: Multiple postdoctoral roles at Newcastle University, Northwestern University, and City College, NY, culminating in his current faculty position. Research Interests: Optogenetic control, neural dynamics in primates, spinal cord plasticity, and neuromodulation therapies. His work bridges basic science and clinical applications, with recent focus on non-invasive neurostimulation (e.g., brain-responsive music) and closed-loop systems for epilepsy management. Over 19 peer-reviewed articles highlight his contributions to understanding neural pathways and developing therapeutic interventions.

• Neuroscience
• Neuromodulation
• Brain-Computer Interfaces
• +5 more

Niklas Mattsson-Carlgren serves as an Associate Professor and Senior Lecturer at Lund University's Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences. He holds multiple significant roles including Deputy Research Team Manager and Principal Investigator for several major research projects. His affiliations extend to the Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), LU Profile Area: Proactive Ageing, and MultiPark: Multidisciplinary Research Focused on Parkinson's Disease. Dr. Mattsson-Carlgren's research primarily focuses on Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions, with additional work on acute brain injuries such as those following cardiac arrest. His expertise spans neurochemistry, including the regulation of pain and sleep. He employs biochemical measurements, neuroimaging, and cognitive testing to study disease processes in vivo across the spectrum from preclinical disease to advanced dementia. His work aims to improve diagnostic and prognostic methods in clinical practice, enhance clinical trial design for novel therapies, and deepen understanding of disease mechanisms. His recent publications demonstrate a strong emphasis on plasma biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease detection and monitoring, with particular focus on tau and amyloid pathology. The research shows increasing integration of machine learning approaches with traditional biomarker analysis, reflecting a trend toward more sophisticated diagnostic tools that combine multiple data sources for improved accuracy in predicting disease progression. As Principal Investigator for multiple significant projects including 'Longitudinal plasma biomarkers, cognitive data and amyloid PET to improve early prevention of Alzheimer's disease' and 'Validation of an MTBR tau immunoassay for CSF and plasma,' he leads substantial research efforts funded by organizations including Familjen Rönströms stiftelse, Eli Lilly and Company, and the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation. He also serves as supervisor for PhD students, notably for 'Studies of induced neuronal cells in Alzheimer's disease.' Dr. Mattsson-Carlgren is actively involved in the neuroscience community, serving on the program committee for Neuroscience Day 2025. His research contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and wellbeing. His work has gained significant attention, with multiple papers being picked up by news outlets and referenced across social media platforms including X (Twitter) and Bluesky.

• Alzheimer's Disease
• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Tau Pathology
• +7 more

Kequan Zhou is a Professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Science at Wayne State University's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on value-added nutraceuticals and functional foods for chronic disease prevention, particularly targeting Type 2 diabetes and obesity through bioactive food components. Supported by NIH, USDA, and NSF grants, Zhou leads studies on gut microbiota interactions, enzyme inhibition, and antioxidant mechanisms. Ph.D. in Food Science, University of Maryland-College Park (2005) M.S. in Public Health, China CDC (2001) M.D. in Clinical Medicine, Shandong University (1998) Zhou's recent work explores probiotic bacteria like Akkermansia muciniphila, marine-derived antimicrobials, and grape pomace compounds. His publications span food chemistry, diabetes research, and microbiome science, with methodological innovations in enzyme immobilization and metabolite characterization. Scientific Awards 2016 - Career Development Chair Award, Wayne State University 2012 - Finalist, ACS Young Scientist Award 2010 - University Research Grant Award As a Scientific Editor for the Journal of Food Science, Zhou contributes to academic leadership while teaching graduate courses in nutrition, food safety, and functional foods. His interdisciplinary approach bridges food science, pharmacology, and public health.

• Nutraceuticals
• Functional Foods
• Bioactive Food Components
• +6 more

Dr. Charles Harrington is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Aberdeen's School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition. With a background in microbiology, he has transitioned to become a leading researcher in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly focusing on Alzheimer's disease and tau protein biology. His career spans over four decades, with significant contributions to understanding the molecular mechanisms of protein aggregation in neurodegenerative conditions. BSc (Hons) Microbiology, University of Glasgow (1977) PhD Microbiology, University of Glasgow (1980) Harrington's research interests center on the biology of tau protein in aging and Alzheimer's disease, with emphasis on diseases characterized by protein aggregation and methods to prevent these processes. His work has evolved from early studies on microbial cell walls to current investigations of tau pathology, demonstrating remarkable interdisciplinary expertise. He has developed assays for screening tau aggregation inhibitors and has extensively studied the therapeutic potential of hydromethylthionine. Analysis of his recent publications (2021-2025) reveals a strong focus on tau protein aggregation mechanisms, neuroinflammation, synaptic dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases, and the therapeutic effects of tau aggregation inhibitors. His work frequently examines interactions between different therapeutic approaches, particularly how cholinesterase inhibitors might interfere with tau-targeting treatments. Harrington's research bridges molecular mechanisms with clinical applications, contributing significantly to the development of biomarkers and therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. As Chief Scientific Officer for TauRx Therapeutics Ltd, Harrington oversees non-clinical activities for a company conducting phase 3 trials of hydromethylthionine. His collaborative work spans multiple international institutions, with numerous co-authors across neuroscience, biochemistry, and clinical research fields. While specific grant information isn't detailed in the provided text, his extensive publication record suggests substantial research funding support over his career. Harrington's laboratory work appears focused on tau transgenic mouse models, particularly investigating how tau pathology affects synaptic function, neurotransmitter systems, and behavioral outcomes. His research team has developed sophisticated methods for studying protein aggregation and its consequences in neurodegenerative disease models.

• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Alzheimer's Disease
• Tau Protein Biology
• +3 more

Professor Neil Harrison is a Clinical Professor in Neuroimaging at Cardiff University's School of Medicine, leading the Immunopsychiatry Research Group at CUBRIC and the Haydn Ellis Building. He previously established the UK's first Clinical Immunopsychiatry Service in Sussex. His expertise spans neuroimaging, psychiatry, and immunology, focusing on how immune systems interact with brain function in mental illnesses like depression and Alzheimer’s. He holds grants from the MRC, Wellcome Trust, and Janssen Pharmaceutics. Education: PhD in Neuroscience from UCL’s Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging, psychiatry training at the Maudsley Hospital and National Hospital for Neurology, Queen Square. Research interests include neuroinflammation’s role in mental health, with a focus on translational approaches like wearable technology for early disease detection. He chairs the Psychoneuroimmunology Research Society and advises the Wellcome Trust’s Clinical Interview Committee. Grants and collaborations include work on imaging brain inflammation, chronic fatigue mechanisms, and translational immunopsychiatry. His lab investigates neuroimaging biomarkers and clinical applications of immunological insights in mental health.

• Immunopsychiatry
• Neuroimaging
• Psychiatry
• +5 more