Cato Drion

Cato Drion is an Assistant Professor in Behavioural Neuroscience at the University of Groningen (RUG), affiliated with the Faculty of Science and Engineering. His research focuses on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying epilepsy and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), particularly the mTOR signaling pathway. He holds a PhD in Neurobiology from the University of Amsterdam and has earned teaching qualifications from both RUG and the University of Amsterdam.

• Education:
  • PhD in Neurobiology (2019, University of Amsterdam)
  • MSc in Brain and Cognitive Sciences (2013)
  • BSc in Psychobiology (2011)
  • Animal Experimentation Certificate (2014)

His research interests include synaptic signaling, neurodevelopmental disorders, and the interplay between genetic/environmental factors and neurological conditions. Recent work highlights the role of autophagy and mTOR pathway dysregulation in ASD.

Teaching responsibilities span multiple programs, including BSc Biology, Life Science and Technology, Pharmacy, and MSc Biomedical Sciences. He coordinates courses such as Human Physiology and the Neuroscience minor. Awards include the Senior Teaching Qualification (2024) and University Teaching Qualification (2020).

Collaborations include the European Conference on Behavioural Biology and peer-review work for Epilepsia. His Drion lab investigates translational models of neurological disorders, with publications focusing on curcumin’s anti-epileptogenic potential and mTOR pathway analysis in ASD.