Elena Oancea

Elena Oancea is a Professor of Medical Science at Brown University, specializing in cell biology and signal transduction. Her research focuses on understanding ion channel function, particularly the TRPM1 channel, and its role in melanoma and skin pigmentation. She employs advanced microscopy techniques like TIRF to study UV-induced pigmentation and molecular signaling at the plasma membrane. Her laboratory develops novel fluorescent probes to visualize these processes.

Educations:

• Bachelor of Science in Physics (1989), University of Bucharest, Romania
• Master of Science in Biophysics (1991), University of Bucharest, Romania
• PhD in Cell Biology (1998), Duke University Medical Center
• Postdoctoral Training: Harvard University Medical School and Children's Hospital, Boston

Her research interests include ion channels (TRPM family), melanocyte biology, melanoma progression, fluorescence microscopy, and live imaging. She investigates how UV radiation affects skin pigmentation and tumor metastasis, leveraging TIRF microscopy and molecular biology tools.

Key Research Themes: TRPM1's tumor suppressor role in melanoma, UV-induced pigmentation mechanisms, and signal transduction pathways in live cells.

Awards:

• 2009-2010 Rhode Island Foundation Award
• 2008-2009 Maren Foundation Award
• 2008-2009 NIH RI-INBRE Pilot Project Award

Teaching: Courses include BIOL 1110 and BIOL 2220 on signal transduction, emphasizing molecular mechanisms and cellular signaling pathways.

Labs/Teams: Her lab at Brown focuses on cutting-edge microscopy and ion channel research, contributing to understanding melanoma and skin biology through innovative experimental approaches.