Barbara Kofler

Professor Barbara Kofler is a distinguished researcher at Paracelsus Medical University in Salzburg, Austria, where she serves as Head of the Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism since 2010 and Head of the Diagnostic and Scientific Laboratories in the Department of Pediatrics since 1995. She is an elected member of the Academy of Europe (Membership Number: 5504) in the Physiology & Neuroscience section since 2020.

Her educational background includes a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Innsbruck (1987-1991) following her chemistry studies at the same institution (1980-1987). Her early career included research positions at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research in Sydney, Australia (1993) and the University of Innsbruck (1992).

Dr. Kofler's research spans multiple interconnected fields including neuroendocrinology, neuroinflammation, neuropeptides, pharmacology, G-protein coupled receptors, mitochondrial energy metabolism and genetics, tumor metabolism, and the therapeutic applications of ketogenic diets. Her work extensively utilizes in vivo animal models to study inflammation, obesity, regeneration, behavior, and cancer. She has made significant contributions to understanding galanin systems in various disease contexts including cancer, skin inflammation, and neurological conditions.

Her publication record is impressive with 128 peer-reviewed publications and an H-factor of 33. Her recent work demonstrates a strong focus on the intersection of metabolism and cancer, particularly exploring how ketogenic diets and mitochondrial function affect tumor growth and the immune response within the tumor microenvironment. Her research shows a consistent theme of investigating neuropeptide systems (particularly galanin and related peptides) and their roles in various physiological and pathological processes.

Dr. Kofler has received numerous prestigious awards including the Clemens von Pirquet-Award (2016), International Prize for Research from the City of Salzburg (2011), and multiple Golden Awards for Excellence in Research from Paracelsus Medical University. She has served on editorial boards including Experimental Dermatology and Neuropeptides, and has been actively involved with the Austrian Science Fund as both reporter and co-reporter.

Her research program is well-funded through multiple competitive grants including those from the Austrian Science Fund, Austrian Research Promotion Agency, and Horizon 2020 Marie Sklodowska-Curie Training Network. She has served as Principal Investigator for significant projects including the Laura Bassi Center of Expertise for the Therapeutic Application of Neuropeptides and the MEET Marie Curie International Training Network.