معرفی
Ivan Rodriguez is a Full Professor at the University of Geneva's Faculty of Science, leading the Laboratory of Neurogenetics. His research focuses on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neural circuits governing innate behaviors in mammals, particularly through the olfactory and vomeronasal systems. His work combines genetic, physiological, and computational approaches, including the development of transgenic mouse models and single-cell technologies. Key projects include studying the claustrum’s role in memory and sensory integration, the evolution of chemoreceptors, and the impact of pathogens on neural behavior.
Research Interests
Dr. Rodriguez’s lab investigates neural circuits in the olfactory system, claustrum, and vomeronasal organ. Specific topics include:
- Neuronal coding and plasticity in sensory systems
- Genetic and molecular mechanisms of olfactory receptor choice
- Pathogen detection and immune-to-olfactory receptor evolution
- Claustrum function in memory and inter-areal communication
Key Collaborations
His team includes researchers such as Sabine Fièvre (Ambizione Fellow), Daniel Rossier, and Alan Carleton, focusing on projects like genetic tool development for the claustrum and SARS-CoV-2 entry mechanisms in olfactory tissues. Recent work highlights the claustrum’s critical role in working memory and long-term memory consolidation.
Grants & Lab
The laboratory employs advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and optogenetics. Current projects are supported by grants from Swiss National Science Foundation and EU funding, though specific grant details are not explicitly stated in the provided texts.
Publications
Recent contributions span Nature, Neuron, and Cell, with a focus on sensory systems, neural circuits, and evolutionary biology. Notable papers include studies on claustrum function, vomeronasal receptor evolution, and SARS-CoV-2 receptors in olfactory tissues.
