Catherine Christian-Hinman

Catherine Christian-Hinman is an Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, affiliated with the Neuroscience Program, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science & Technology, and Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology. Her research bridges neuroscience, physiology, and neuroendocrinology.

• A.B. in Neuroscience and Italian Language & Literature from Smith College
• Ph.D. in Neuroscience from University of Virginia
• Postdoctoral Fellowship in Neurology and Neurological Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine

Her research focuses on neural mechanisms linking epilepsy and reproductive endocrine disorders, particularly sex-specific effects in temporal lobe epilepsy. She investigates brain-derived estradiol (neuroestradiol) in seizure regulation and Alzheimer's disease, utilizing patch-clamp electrophysiology, optogenetics, and EEG. Recent studies highlight sex differences in seizure susceptibility and hormonal impacts on neural circuits.

Key publications span Alzheimer's disease, temporal lobe epilepsy, GABA transmission, and sex as a biological variable. Her work frequently examines mouse models, neuroendocrine feedback, and synaptic plasticity.

• James and Maxine Heath Award for Excellence in Teaching Physiology (2025)
• Neuroscience Program Faculty Mentor Recognition Award (2024)
• University of Virginia Medical Alumni Association Distinguished Achievement Award (2023)
• Center for Advanced Study Fellow (2020-2021)

Dr. Christian-Hinman mentors PhD, Master's, and undergraduate researchers, with students frequently winning research fellowships and thesis awards. Her lab receives funding from NIH, Whitehall Foundation, and Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy, among others.