Chiara Zurzolo

Chiara Zurzolo is a Professor at the Institut Pasteur, where she has served since 2015. She is the Head of the Membrane Traffic and Pathogenesis Unit (2003–present) and previously directed the Cell Biology and Infection Department (2014–2019). Her academic career spans roles as Associate Professor (2000–2003) and Assistant Professor (1994–2000) at Naples University Federico II. She co-leads the Pasteur Weizmann Council (2020–present) and chairs the “Brain connectivity and Neurodegenerative Disease” thematic at Institut Pasteur (2020–present).

• Doctor in Medicine and Surgery (1984), Naples University
• PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology (1991), Naples University
• Specialization in Molecular and Clinical Oncology (1992), Naples University
• Post-doctoral Fellow (1990–1994), Cornell University Medical School

Her research focuses on membrane trafficking, protein-lipid interactions, and tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) in epithelial and neuronal cells. She investigates how TNTs facilitate the spread of pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 and misfolded proteins (e.g., alpha-synuclein, Tau) in neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s). Her work combines advanced imaging techniques and molecular biology to unravel cellular communication mechanisms.

Her publications emphasize TNTs as intercellular conduits for viral transmission, protein misfolding, and lysosomal trafficking. Key themes include calcium signaling in Golgi dynamics, Wnt pathway regulation of neuronal connectivity, and astrocytic roles in alpha-synuclein degradation. Her studies bridge cell biology, neuroscience, and pathogenesis through structural and functional imaging.

• Radcliffe Fellow (2018–2019)
• EMBO Member (2015–)
• Hugo et Valérie Ramniceanu Prize (2011)

She mentors over 50 PhD students and postdocs, serves on 30+ thesis committees, and actively secures national/international funding (ANR, ARC, INCA, EU). Her leadership roles include co-president of the Pasteur-Weizmann Council and membership in evaluation committees for scientific promotions and recruitments.