Edward Han

Edward Han is an Assistant Professor of Neuroscience at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, where he leads the Han Lab. His research focuses on understanding how hippocampal neuronal activity leads to learning and memory.

Education

• BA in Neurobiology and Classics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
• PhD in Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego, CA

The Han Lab investigates the neural mechanisms of learning and memory in the hippocampus. Using two-photon calcium imaging and in vivo electrophysiology in awake, behaving animals performing virtual reality navigation tasks, the lab studies network activity at cellular and systems levels. Their research aims to understand how hippocampal activity patterns support spatial learning and to develop interventions for neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Han's recent publications focus on hippocampal inhibitory networks, neural dynamics during behavior, and synaptic plasticity. His work employs advanced techniques including virtual reality, two-photon imaging, and electrophysiology to study learning at multiple scales. The research spans from cellular mechanisms to network-level phenomena, with implications for understanding and treating memory impairments.

Scientific Awards

• 2005, 2008, 2014 Distinguished Teaching Service Award
• 2007 McKnight Technological Innovation in Neuroscience Award
• 2009 St. Louis Academy of Sciences Innovation Award
• 2009 NIH Director’s Pioneer Award
• 2009 Society for Neuroscience Research Award for Innovation in Neuroscience (RAIN)

Information regarding academic advising and research grants was not provided in the source material.

The Han Lab utilizes virtual reality environments to study spatial navigation and learning in animal models. The lab's research combines imaging and electrophysiological approaches to investigate hippocampal function at cellular and network levels, with a focus on translating findings to neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.