Aleister Saunders

Aleister Saunders, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Drexel University and serves as Executive Vice Provost for Research & Innovation. He leads Drexel's research strategy, securing R1 classification (2018–2022), and oversees major initiatives like the Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFA) collaboration with MIT. His research focuses on Alzheimer’s disease pathogenesis, exploring genes and pathways involved in disease progression. He has pioneered invertebrate models (e.g., Drosophila) to study Alzheimer’s mechanisms and has contributed to drug discovery efforts targeting APP metabolism. Saunders’ lab integrates biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology to identify novel therapeutic strategies.

Education:

• BS in Biochemistry, Pennsylvania State University
• PhD in Biochemistry, University of North Carolina
• Postdoctoral Fellowships at Harvard Medical School

Research Interests: Saunders’ work centers on Alzheimer’s disease, with a focus on APP processing, protein quality control, and drug-like compound discovery. His lab investigates amyloid-β’s role in disrupting cellular signaling (e.g., Sonic hedgehog pathways) and employs Drosophila models to study synaptic and behavioral deficits.

Awards & Impact: Saunders has advanced Drexel’s innovation ranking and led partnerships with organizations like Spark Therapeutics for gene therapy facilities. His research is funded by NIH, NSF, and foundations such as the Cure Alzheimer’s Foundation.

Grants & Leadership:

• Directed the RNAi Resource Center at Drexel
• Member of NIH study sections
• Board member of the University City Science Center

Labs & Facilities: Saunders oversees Drexel’s Center for Functional Fabrics and the PA Fabric Discovery Center, advancing textile-based biomedical innovations. His lab is located in PISB 401 C2.