Chieh Chang

Chieh Chang is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Illinois at Chicago. His research focuses on understanding neuronal connectivity, regeneration, and degeneration in C. elegans, with applications to human neurobiology. He holds a PhD from the California Institute of Technology and has held positions at McGill University and Cincinnati Children's Hospital. His work investigates mechanisms governing axon guidance, synapse formation, and age-related changes in nerve growth capacity.

Research Interests:

• Mechanisms regulating neuronal connectivity
• Neuronal regeneration and repair
• Engulfment of neuronal debris
• Role of microRNAs and heterochronic genes in nervous system development
• Age-related decline in regenerative capacity

Awards & Honors:

• Whitehall Foundation Research Award (2013, 2009)
• March of Dimes Research Program Award (2010)
• Howard Hughes Medical Fellowship (1997-1998)

Grants & Collaborations:

• NIH grants for studying neural circuit assembly
• Industry partnerships for regenerative medicine

Labs & Affiliations:

Dr. Chang leads the Laboratory of Assembly and Regeneration of Neural Circuits, focusing on C. elegans models to uncover universal principles of neural circuitry. His lab employs advanced microscopy and genetic tools, including femtosecond laser ablation for precision axotomy studies.