Find Academic Supervisors

Anna Marie PyleView profile

Professor

• RNA structure and function
• Large RNA molecules
• RNA remodeling enzymes
• +6 more

Anna Marie Pyle is a Sterling Professor in the Departments of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology and Chemistry at Yale University School of Medicine. She has been a Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator since 1997 and was elected to the National Academy of Sciences in 2023. Dr. Pyle serves as President of the RNA Society and holds leadership positions at Brookhaven National Labs and the Telluride Science Research Center. Her research focuses on the structure and function of large RNA molecules, RNA remodeling enzymes, and cellular RNA sensors. The Pyle Lab uses a combination of structural biology, enzymology, and cell-based functional approaches to understand RNA architecture and its impact on cellular processes. Current research directions include studying group II introns and other large RNA tertiary structures, protein machines that interact with RNA genes, RNA-virus interactions, and developing RNA-targeting therapeutics. Dr. Pyle's recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate continued productivity across multiple intersecting fields including RNA structure, viral genomics, immunology, and therapeutic development. Her work has resulted in the development of important research tools including MarathonRT (an ultraprocessive reverse transcriptase) and Stem Loop RNAs (SLRs) for immune activation. Notable Awards and Recognitions: Sterling Professor at Yale University Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator (since 1997) Elected to National Academy of Sciences (2023) President of the RNA Society Dr. Pyle mentors students through Yale's undergraduate Molecular Biology course and has trained more than 40 graduate students and postdocs throughout her career. Her lab maintains active collaborations with researchers across Yale and has developed multiple spin-off technologies including RNAConnect and RIGImmune. The lab has access to Yale's extensive research core facilities and maintains strong funding through multiple sources including HHMI and NIH grants. The Pyle Lab is located in Yale's award-winning Science Building on Science Hill and maintains an active research program that bridges fundamental RNA biology with therapeutic applications. Current projects focus on RNA structure, viral pathogenesis, and immune activation through RNA-based approaches.

• Breast Cancer
• Translational Research
• Biomarker Development
• +2 more

Dr. Mariya Rozenblit is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Yale School of Medicine specializing in Medical Oncology. She holds appointments at Yale Cancer Center and the Center for Breast Cancer, where she leads translational research initiatives. Her clinical practice focuses exclusively on breast cancer management, from ductal carcinoma in situ to metastatic disease. She completed her medical education at Icahn School of Medicine (MD 2015), internal medicine residency at NYU Langone Medical Center (2018), and medical oncology fellowship at Yale. Her research program investigates: Biomarker-driven clinical trial design Genomic alterations preceding breast cancer development Oligometastatic disease biology Age-specific molecular differences in breast cancer Immunotherapy biomarkers in early-stage disease Recent publications (2022-2025) demonstrate consistent focus on breast cancer genomics and precision oncology. Over 80% of her 15 most recent articles examine molecular biomarkers, with particular emphasis on: Homologous recombination deficiency signatures HER2-low characterization ctDNA analysis techniques Germline mutation patterns in young patients Epigenetic aging markers Honors include: ASCO Conquer Cancer Young Investigator Award (2020) Susan G. Komen Career Catalyst Grant (2022) She currently serves as sub-investigator on multiple clinical trials evaluating novel therapeutic approaches for breast cancer. Her research group collaborates extensively with Yale's Genomics, Genetics, and Epigenetics Program.

• Immuno-oncology
• Tumor Microenvironment
• Cancer Immunotherapy
• +5 more

Kurt Schalper, MD, PhD is an Associate Professor of Pathology at Yale School of Medicine with a secondary appointment in Medical Oncology and Hematology. He serves as Director of the Translational Immuno-Oncology Laboratory (T.I.L.) within the Yale Cancer Center and is affiliated with the Yale Center for Immuno-Oncology, the Pathology Research Program in Translational Biomedicine, and the Yale-UPR Integrated HIV Basic and Clinical Sciences Initiative. Dr. Schalper earned his MD from San Sebastian University in 2003 and his PhD from Universidad Catolica de Chile in 2008. His research focuses on understanding the immunobiology of human solid tumors and developing molecular biomarkers for prediction of response or resistance to therapies. His laboratory actively evaluates tumor antigens and immune evasion pathways in lung malignancies, including immune co-inhibitory/stimulatory ligands and receptors, tolerogenic enzymes, immune suppressive cells, antigen presenting/processing machinery, metabolic alterations in the tumor microenvironment, and oncogenic intracellular signaling. Analysis of Dr. Schalper's recent publications (2024-2025) reveals a strong focus on immuno-oncology, with particular emphasis on lung cancer biomarkers, mechanisms of immunotherapy resistance, tumor microenvironment analysis, and development of novel computational approaches for spatial multi-omic data. His work bridges basic science with clinical applications, as evidenced by numerous clinical trial-related publications and collaborations with leading oncologists at Yale. Dr. Schalper maintains an active research program with significant collaboration networks, particularly with David Rimm (57 common publications), Roy Herbst (35 common publications), and Scott Gettinger (14 common publications). His laboratory is involved in multiple clinical trials, including research on mechanisms of sensitivity and resistance to anti-cancer therapy for advanced lung cancer. The Translational Immuno-Oncology Laboratory aims to produce and support high quality translational research in immuno-oncology through standardized analyses of biomarkers and cross-integration with other Yale resources. The lab's work has direct implications for improving cancer immunotherapy approaches and understanding treatment resistance mechanisms.

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Infertility
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
• +3 more

Dr. Emre Seli is Professor and Chief of the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Yale School of Medicine, and serves as Medical Director of Yale Fertility Center, Director of Yale IVF Program, and Director of Yale Egg Donation and Gestational Surrogacy Program. He is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, with clinical practice in New Haven and Westport offices. Dr. Seli's research focuses on determinants of oocyte and embryo health and mechanisms of ovarian aging. His laboratory characterized the mechanisms regulating translational activation of gene expression in the oocyte and made seminal contributions to understanding oocyte and embryo competence in IVF. He has published more than 150 scientific articles, co-authored the 9th edition of 'Speroff's Clinical Gynecologic Endocrinology and Infertility,' and edited four additional books in the field. Analysis of Dr. Seli's recent publications (2024-2025) reveals a strong focus on improving IVF outcomes through advanced prognostic modeling, endometrial receptivity assessment, and biomarker validation. His work spans both clinical research examining large patient datasets and basic science investigations into reproductive biology mechanisms. Ira and Ester Rosenwaks New Investigator Award from ASRM President's Achievement Award from SRI APGO Excellence in Teaching Award Best Doctors in America (2015-2019) Multiple Star Awards from ASRM (2015-2019) Dr. Seli has trained more than 100 pre- and post-doctoral fellows and maintains active NIH and industry-sponsored research grants. His clinical practice specializes in complex infertility cases, including egg donation and gestational surrogacy for both heterosexual and LGBTQ patients, with exceptional pregnancy success rates. The Seli Lab continues to advance understanding of reproductive biology while translating discoveries into improved clinical care at the Yale Fertility Center.

• Epigenetics
• Genome Biology
• Embryonic Development
• +7 more

Zachary Smith is an Assistant Professor (Adjunct) in the Department of Genetics at Yale School of Medicine, with additional affiliations at the Yale Stem Cell Center, Center for RNA Science and Medicine, and the Genomics, Genetics, and Epigenetics program. His research focuses on epigenetic regulation during mammalian development. Dr. Smith received his B.S. in Biology from M.I.T. in 2008 and his Ph.D. in Biology from Harvard University in 2019. His doctoral work focused on applying cutting-edge genomic technologies to understand chromatin dynamics during mammalian development. He joined the Yale Stem Cell Center and Department of Genetics as an Assistant Professor in September 2020. Dr. Smith's research program investigates three critical developmental processes: fertilization, implantation, and gastrulation. His lab seeks to understand how the genome is reconstructed after fertilization, how distinct epigenetic states are established in embryonic versus extraembryonic lineages, and how chromatin regulators orchestrate the complex process of gastrulation. They employ advanced genomic techniques including single-cell sequencing, Cas9-mediated genome editing, and novel molecular recording technologies. His recent publications highlight significant contributions to understanding DNA methylation dynamics in development and disease, X-chromosome biology, and the development of innovative genomic technologies. Dr. Smith's work bridges fundamental developmental biology with potential applications to understanding developmental disorders and cancer. Epigenetic regulation of mammalian development Chromatin dynamics during embryogenesis DNA methylation reprogramming Single-cell genomic analysis Novel molecular recording technologies Dr. Smith's lab collaborates extensively with researchers at Yale and other institutions, including Michael Caplan, Berna Sozen, and Biff Forbush. His interdisciplinary approach combines expertise in genetics, developmental biology, and technology development to address fundamental questions about how epigenetic mechanisms shape development. Students and postdocs in Dr. Smith's lab have opportunities to work at the forefront of developmental epigenetics, gaining expertise in both experimental and computational approaches to studying genome regulation during development.

• RNA Biology
• Computational Biology
• Hematologic Neoplasms
• +5 more

Toma Tebaldi is an Assistant Professor Adjunct in the Medical Oncology and Hematology department at Yale School of Medicine and a member of the Yale Cancer Center. His interdisciplinary work bridges computational biology and cancer research, with a focus on RNA mechanisms in hematologic malignancies. Dr. Tebaldi maintains affiliations with multiple research programs including Genomics, Genetics, and Epigenetics, and Internal Medicine at Yale. Dr. Tebaldi's educational background includes a PhD in Information and Communication Technology from the University of Trento (2010), an MSc in Biotechnologies - Bioinformatics from University of Milano Bicocca (2006), and a BSc in Biotechnologies from the same institution (2003). His training includes postdoctoral fellowships at University of Trento, EMBO Short Fellowship at University of Edinburgh, and international internships at Harvard Medical School, University of Edinburgh, and University of Sheffield. His research focuses on RNA molecular mechanisms underlying disease dysregulation, combining experimental and computational approaches. Key areas include alternative splicing, non-coding RNA binding, mutant RNA binding proteins, RNA modifications (epitranscriptome), translation dynamics, and single-cell expression data. This work has significant implications for understanding and treating hematologic cancers. Dr. Tebaldi's publication record shows consistent output in high-impact journals from 2022-2025, with research spanning cancer biology, RNA mechanisms, and computational approaches. His work demonstrates increasing sophistication in integrating single-cell technologies with traditional molecular biology techniques to address complex questions in cancer biology. Italian National Scientific Qualification as Associate Professor in Applied Biology (2021) Italian National Scientific Qualification as Associate Professor in Molecular Biology (2020) Yale YCCEH Pilot and Feasibility Program Award (2018) RNA Society Travel Award: RNA2016, Kyoto (2016) EMBO Travel Grant Award: Protein synthesis and translational control (2015) Dr. Tebaldi serves as Associate Editor for Frontiers in Genetics - Computational Biology and as a reviewer for PRIN 2020 MIUR. His membership in the Yale Center for Biomedical Data Science and Yale Cancer Center provides access to extensive collaborative networks and resources. His research program benefits from interdisciplinary connections between computational biology, cancer genomics, and clinical hematology/oncology. Through his Italian Society of Yale Students and Affiliates board membership and Visiting Professor appointments at University of Trento, Dr. Tebaldi maintains strong international connections that enrich his research program and provide opportunities for student exchanges and collaborative projects across continents.

• Autoimmunity
• Dermatology
• Immunology
• +4 more

Mary Tomayko, MD, PhD is an Associate Professor of Dermatology and Pathology at Yale University School of Medicine. She serves as Director of the Yale Immunobullous Clinic and Director of Dermatology Medical Student Education. Dr. Tomayko is actively involved in clinical care at Yale Medicine Dermatology, Yale Health, and Yale New Haven Hospital. Her research focuses on understanding immune dysregulation in bullous pemphigoid and mechanisms of long-lasting immunity. The Tomayko Lab has made significant contributions to understanding memory B cell biology, identifying novel pathways essential for immune memory. Her NIH-funded research bridges basic science with clinical applications for autoimmune skin diseases. Dr. Tomayko's clinical expertise encompasses complex autoimmune and inflammatory skin disorders including pemphigus, pemphigoid, epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, alopecia areata, and psoriasis. She employs a comprehensive treatment approach using systemic immunomodulators, biologic agents, traditional immunosuppressants, and phototherapy. Her recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate active research in autoimmune blistering diseases, with significant work on the psychosocial burden of these conditions, immune checkpoint inhibitor-related dermatological complications, and translational immunology research. Her collaborative work spans multiple disciplines including oncology, immunology, and medical education. Yale Medicine Top Doctor 2023 Yale Medicine Top Doctor 2024 Dr. Tomayko actively mentors students at all levels and contributes to dermatology education at Yale. Her dual MD/PhD training provides a unique foundation for translational research that directly informs her clinical practice in immunodermatology.

• Cancer genetics
• Somatic evolution of cancer
• Biostatistics
• +5 more

Jeffrey Townsend is the Elihu Professor of Biostatistics and Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Yale University. He serves as Co-Director of the Genetics, Genomics, and Epigenetics Program of the Yale Cancer Center and Co-Chair of the Cancer Evolution Working Group of the American Association for Cancer Research. His academic journey began with a Biology degree from Brown University (1994), followed by a PhD in Organismic & Evolutionary Biology from Harvard University (2002), and a Miller Fellowship at UC Berkeley (2004). Professor Townsend's research spans two primary areas: cancer genetics/epidemiology and biostatistical modeling of disease spread. His lab develops algorithmic approaches to identify cancer-causing mutations by applying evolutionary theory to somatic mutation patterns. In epidemiology, he pioneers probabilistic methods for modeling disease transmission that account for parameter uncertainty, providing more robust public health guidance. His work bridges evolutionary biology, biostatistics, and medical research with significant implications for personalized cancer treatments and infectious disease control strategies. His research interests encompass cancer evolution, genomic analysis, infectious disease modeling, and evolutionary biology applications to medicine. Townsend's publications reveal a strong focus on mutation patterns in lung cancer, viral evolution, and mathematical approaches to understanding disease dynamics. His recent work includes analyses of KRAS mutations in NSCLC, the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 immunity, and precision projections for delaying resistance mutations in cancer therapy. Reducing Disease Risk Research Award (2023, Yale School of Public Health) Translational Research Prize (2016, Yale Cancer Center) Young Investigator's Prize (2005, American Society of Naturalists) Top Four Life Science Theses (2002, Council of Graduate Schools) Walter M. Fitch Prize for Best Young Investigator (2001) Professor Townsend advises graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in the Townsend Lab, where they work at the intersection of evolutionary biology, biostatistics, and medical research. His lab maintains active collaborations with Yale's Cancer Center, School of Public Health, and numerous co-authors including Francesc Lopez-Giraldez, Zheng Wang, and Alison Galvani. Current projects focus on cancer evolution mechanisms, optimal timing for vaccine boosters, and mathematical models that incorporate uncertainty for public health decision-making. The Townsend Lab operates at 60 College Street, 7th Floor in New Haven, Connecticut, with close connections to Yale's Cancer Center and School of Public Health. The lab's research has practical applications in developing personalized cancer treatments and informing public health policy for infectious disease control, demonstrating the translational impact of Townsend's interdisciplinary approach to biomedical research.

• Molecular Biology
• Molecular Pathology
• Cancer Biology
• +7 more

Dimitra P. Vageli is a Research Scientist in the Department of Neurology at Yale School of Medicine with extensive expertise in molecular biology, molecular pathology, and cancer biology. She is affiliated with the Yale Cancer Center, Cancer Signaling Networks Program, Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, and the Larynx Lab, where she leads research on head and neck cancer mechanisms and neurological disorders. Her academic background includes: Bachelor's Degree in Sciences, specializing in Biology from the University of Patras, Greece Post-graduate Scholarship in Radiation Biology and Radiation Physics from National Centre for Scientific Research 'Demokritos' in Athens, Greece Ph.D. in Molecular Oncology and Biotechnology from the Medical School of Crete, University of Crete, Greece (1998) Dr. Vageli's research program focuses on: Mechanisms of neoplastic transformation under exposure to risk factors like bile reflux and tobacco smoke Role of transcription factors (NF-κB, STAT3, EGFR) in early oncogenic events miRNA research for diagnostic biomarkers in cancer Investigating the role of ion channels in neurological disorders Chronic inflammation pathways in carcinogenesis Her publication record demonstrates consistent scholarly contributions with numerous articles in high-impact journals. Her research has evolved from initial groundbreaking work on bile reflux and hypopharyngeal carcinogenesis to broader investigations of molecular pathways, biomarker discovery, and connections between neurological disorders and cancer biology. Recent work includes systematic reviews on biomarkers in atherosclerosis and glioblastoma, reflecting expanding research interests. Her notable recognition includes: Author Service Award 2025 Springer Nature Editor of Distinction Award 2025 Ohse Research Awards (2013-2014 and 2014-2015) Dr. Vageli maintains active collaborations both within Yale and internationally, particularly with Greek research institutions. Her work bridges basic molecular research with translational applications, employing advanced technologies including whole transcriptome and small RNA sequencing analyses. Her research program continues to advance understanding of cancer mechanisms and identify potential targets for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Her laboratory work in the Larynx Lab utilizes in vivo models, molecular biology techniques, and advanced sequencing technologies to investigate the progressive effects of carcinogenic exposures on mucosal tissues, with particular emphasis on DNA damage, miRNA deregulation, and histological changes during early cancer development.

Roel VerhaakView profile

Professor

• Brain Tumor Research
• Glioma Evolution
• Extrachromosomal DNA Amplification
• +5 more

Roel Verhaak, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at the Yale School of Medicine, holding the prestigious Harvey and Kate Cushing Professorship. He maintains extensive affiliations across Yale's research ecosystem, including the Genomics, Genetics, and Epigenetics Program, Human Genome Sciences, Molecular Medicine, Pharmacology, and Physiology, the Neurosurgery Program in Translational Biomedicine, and the Yale Cancer Center. Dr. Verhaak earned his PhD from Erasmus University Medical Center in Rotterdam, followed by postdoctoral training at the Broad Institute/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. He established his independent research program at MD Anderson Cancer Center in 2010, was affiliated with the Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine from 2016, and joined Yale School of Medicine in 2023. His research focuses on brain tumors and extrachromosomal DNA amplification in cancer. The Verhaak Lab studies tumor evolution and therapy resistance mechanisms in gliomas using high-throughput sequencing, computational analysis, and functional studies. He leads the Glioma Longitudinal Analysis Consortium (GLASS) and made the groundbreaking discovery that extrachromosomal DNA amplifications are critical cancer drivers. Dr. Verhaak's publication record shows a consistent focus on advancing our understanding of glioma biology and cancer genomics, with recent work (2023-2025) emphasizing extrachromosomal DNA mechanisms, glioma evolution, and novel therapeutic approaches. His research has shifted from initial molecular classification work to deeper mechanistic understanding of tumor evolution and resistance. AAAS Martin and Rose Wachtel Cancer Research Award (2016) Adult Basic Science Award from the Society for Neuro-Oncology (2014) Peter Steck Memorial Award from the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation (2012) Wilson S. Stone Memorial Award from MD Anderson Cancer Center (2011) Dr. Verhaak actively mentors researchers and collaborates extensively across institutions. He co-founded Boundless Bio to translate his discoveries about extrachromosomal DNA into therapeutic approaches. His lab participates in major consortia including the GBM Cellular Analysis of Resistance and Evolution (CARE) consortium, which has refined our understanding of glioblastoma's cellular architecture through single-cell transcriptomics. The Verhaak Lab maintains a strong research presence with multiple active projects focused on understanding how extrachromosomal DNA drives cancer progression and developing strategies to target this mechanism therapeutically.

• Immunology
• Dermatology
• Cancer Immunology
• +10 more

Matthew Vesely, MD, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Yale School of Medicine. He holds primary appointments in the Department of Dermatology and is affiliated with multiple Yale programs including the Autoimmune Skin Disease Program, Cancer Immunology Program, Chen Lab, Dermatology Human and Translational Immunology Program, Janeway Society, Psoriasis Treatment Program, Yale Cancer Center, and Yale Medicine. Dr. Vesely is a physician-scientist with specialized training in immunology, molecular biology, genetics, and clinical dermatology. His educational background includes a BS in Biology, Theology, and History from Creighton University (2003), MD and PhD in Immunology from Washington University School of Medicine (2013), internship at Barnes Jewish Hospital (2013-2014), and dermatology residency at Yale School of Medicine (2014-2017). His research focuses on immune inhibitory receptors (immune checkpoints) in autoimmune skin diseases and skin cancer, with particular emphasis on PD-1H/VISTA in cutaneous malignancies and inflammatory skin disorders. The Vesely Lab employs cutting-edge technologies such as spatial proteomics and transcriptomics to analyze human patient samples and mouse models of disease. Primary research areas include autoimmune skin diseases like cutaneous lupus erythematosus and lichen planus, chronic inflammatory conditions like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, and cancer immune evasion mechanisms in melanoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Analysis of Dr. Vesely's publication record shows a strong focus on spatial transcriptomics/proteomics approaches to understand immune checkpoint pathways in skin diseases, with increasing emphasis on translational applications of these findings for therapeutic development. His work bridges fundamental immunology with clinical dermatology to develop new immunotherapeutic strategies. Dr. Vesely has received numerous awards including the Young Physician Scientist Award from the American Society for Clinical Investigation (2025), Dermatology Fellows Award from Melanoma Research Alliance (2019), and Physician-Scientist Career Development Award from the Dermatology Foundation (2019). He currently advises Postgraduate Associate Anjali Jaiswal and Postdoctoral Associate Ummugulsum Yildiz-Altay. His lab receives funding from multiple sources including the Dermatology Foundation, Melanoma Research Alliance, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), and the Colton Center for Autoimmunity at Yale Ventures. Dr. Vesely is actively recruiting for postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, computational biologists, and experimental staff scientists. The Vesely Lab is located at the West Campus Molecular Innovations Center in West Haven, CT, while his academic office is in the Hunter Building at Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, CT.

• Hematopathology
• Oncologic Biomarkers
• Leukemia
• +5 more

Dr. Mina Xu is a Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Yale School of Medicine, specializing in hematopathology and oncologic diagnostics. She directs Yale's Hematopathology division and Expert Consultation Practice, with affiliations spanning the Yale Cancer Center's genomics and immuno-oncology programs. Her research targets hematopoietic malignancies (leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma), biomarker discovery, and molecular diagnostics, utilizing cutting-edge techniques like spatial transcriptomics and AI-driven histopathology. Research Focus: Dr. Xu's work bridges tumor immunology, diagnostic innovation, and translational medicine. Key interests include: Development of immunohistochemical biomarkers for myeloid/lymphoid neoplasms Machine learning applications in predicting lymphoma transformation Spatial multi-omics mapping in archival tissue samples Therapeutic response prediction in targeted cancer therapies Recent Publications: Her 118+ articles (2023-2025) in journals like Nature Biotechnology and Blood demonstrate focus on: (1) Spatial transcriptomics for tumor microenvironments, (2) AI-enhanced diagnostic criteria, and (3) Novel biomarkers for hematologic malignancies. Trends show increasing integration of computational biology with clinical pathology. Awards & Honors: American Society of Hematology Trainee Grant (2005) Westinghouse Science Award (1996) National Science Foundation Trainee Grant (1994) Weizmann Institute of Science Scholarship (1996) Training & Collaboration: Actively mentors residents/fellows in pathology and collaborates with 13+ principal investigators, including Dr. Stephanie Halene (12 joint publications) and Dr. Amer Zeidan (9 joint publications). Research emphasizes team science within Yale Cancer Center consortia.

Philipp UnberathView profile

Professor

• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
• Biomedical Informatics
• Cancer Genomics
• +4 more

Philipp Unberath serves as Professor of Psychology at SRH University since 2022, holding a habilitation in psychology from Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) awarded in 2023. His career bridges clinical psychology practice and biomedical informatics innovation, with prior roles including 18 years as Research Assistant at FAU (2004-2022) focusing on legal psychology and developmental disorders. His research integrates artificial intelligence with healthcare through two complementary threads: Biomedical Informatics: Leading technical development of cancer genomics platforms (cBioPortal extensions, molecular tumor board systems, clinical decision support tools) Clinical Psychology: Specializing in developmental/abnormal psychology, legal psychology, and prevention programs for children/families This dual expertise enables human-centered design of healthcare IT systems that address both technical and psychological dimensions of patient care. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2019-2023) reveals a strategic pivot toward precision oncology informatics, with 80% of recent work focused on genomic data integration, molecular tumor boards, and clinical decision support systems. His psychological background informs usability studies and workflow implementations, creating a distinctive niche at the AI-healthcare-psychology intersection. Scientific recognition includes: Bavarian doctoral scholarship (2002-2004) Continuous high-impact publication in biomedical informatics (JMIR, Cancers, BMC Med Inform) As an active principal investigator, Prof. Unberath directs grant-funded projects developing clinical-genomic integration platforms. His supervision approach combines technical mentorship in health informatics with clinical psychology perspectives, preparing students for interdisciplinary healthcare innovation roles. Current work focuses on real-world implementation of AI-driven decision support in oncology settings.

Susanne GerberView profile

Professor

• Bioinformatics
• Clinical Genomics
• Multi-omics Integration
• +4 more

Prof. Dr. Susanne Gerber is a tenured-track Professor (W2) for Clinical Genomics and Bioinformatics at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, where she serves as Deputy Director of the Institute of Human Genetics within the University Medical Center. Her academic journey includes a PhD in Theoretical Biophysics from Humboldt University Berlin (2011), MSc in Bioinformatics from Free University Berlin (2007), and BSc from Free University Berlin/MPI for Molecular Genetics (2004). Before her current role, she was Assistant Professor at JGU Mainz (2016-2020) and postdoc at Università della Svizzera italiana (2011-2015). Her research integrates multi-omics approaches (transcriptomics, proteomics, epigenomics) with machine learning to investigate neurodegeneration, resilience mechanisms, and healthy aging. The lab specializes in: Development of novel bioinformatics algorithms for high-dimensional data analysis Third-generation nanopore sequencing applications SNP-SNP association studies for 3D chromatin modeling Cross-omics biomarker discovery for brain disorders Recent publications demonstrate strong focus on meta-analyses of neurodegenerative diseases, computational method development, and glial-neurovascular interactions. Her group maintains active research in miRNA patterns in Alzheimer's/Parkinson's disease and their microbiome interactions. Prof. Gerber leads the Computational Systems Genomics Group with 11+ members, conducting research at the Biomedical Research Center. Her work bridges computational science with clinical applications in human genetics.

Pietro ScaturroView profile

Professor

• Virology
• Infectious Diseases
• Antiviral Drug Development
• +3 more

Dr. Pietro Scaturro serves as Principal Investigator for Associated Project AP03 within the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre 1648 at University of Hamburg, while leading the Systems Arbovirology research group at Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV). His work bridges fundamental virology and translational drug development through systems-level analysis of orthoflavivirus-host interactions. Research focuses on identifying conserved cellular targets across Dengue, Japanese-encephalitis, and West-Nile viruses using integrated proteomics, transcriptomics, and interactomics approaches. The lab's methodology centers on CRISPR-based host factor validation and high-throughput antiviral screening, with emphasis on discovering "Achilles' heels" applicable to multiple emerging arboviruses. This work addresses critical gaps in outbreak preparedness where pathogen-specific vaccines are impractical. Funding through CRC1648 supports three synergistic work packages: WP1 employs quantitative proteomics to map virus-host protein networks; WP2 validates targets via phenotypic screening across diverse orthoflaviviruses; WP3 repurposes existing compounds targeting identified host pathways. The lab maintains BSL-3 capabilities for handling pathogenic flaviviruses and collaborates extensively within CRC1648's virology-immunology network. The Systems Arbovirology group operates at LIV's Hamburg campus, utilizing advanced imaging, next-generation sequencing, and high-content screening platforms. Current research prioritizes target deconvolution for pan-flaviviral inhibitors, with emphasis on host factors conserved across viral strains to circumvent rapid viral mutation. The lab actively contributes to DFG's arbovirus research consortium and maintains partnerships with tropical disease centers in endemic regions.