Harold Mac Gillavry

Harold Mac Gillavry is an Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology within the Faculty of Science at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic function and plasticity, with particular emphasis on AMPA receptor dynamics and organization at excitatory synapses.

Dr. Mac Gillavry's research interests span neuroscience, molecular neurobiology, and synaptic plasticity. His work investigates the nanoscale organization of excitatory synapses, particularly focusing on AMPA receptor nanodomains and their role in synaptic transmission and plasticity. He employs advanced imaging techniques and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to study postsynaptic density organization and receptor dynamics in neuronal cell biology.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on

• AMPA receptor organization at excitatory synapses
• Synaptic plasticity mechanisms
• CRISPR/Cas9 applications in neuroscience
• Nanoscale imaging of synaptic structures
• The role of receptor dynamics in neurodegenerative conditions

His work bridges molecular neuroscience with advanced imaging and genome editing technologies.

Dr. Mac Gillavry teaches Molecular Cell Biology courses at VU Amsterdam, with his current course running from September 1, 2025 to August 31, 2026. His research has garnered significant attention, with multiple publications picked up by news outlets and shared across social media platforms including X (formerly Twitter) and Bluesky.