Joseph McCabe

Joseph McCabe is a Professor and Vice Chair for Faculty Affairs in the Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU) School of Medicine. He also holds secondary appointments as Professor of Neuroscience and Professor of Molecular & Cell Biology. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, Dr. McCabe serves as the Program Director for Neuroprotection and Modeling of The Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine. His work bridges basic neuroscience with translational applications for military-relevant brain injuries.

Dr. McCabe's educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers College (1974)
• Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh (1976)
• Master of Philosophy and Ph.D. in Neuropsychology from City University of New York (1983)

His research primarily focuses on traumatic brain injury mechanisms and neuroprotective strategies, with particular emphasis on understanding cellular stress responses and developing pharmacological interventions to mitigate functional consequences of brain trauma. Dr. McCabe's laboratory investigates sex differences in TBI outcomes, blast-related injuries, and the molecular pathways involved in neuronal recovery. His work has significant implications for military medicine given the prevalence of blast injuries among service members.

Analysis of Dr. McCabe's recent publications reveals a strong focus on blast-induced traumatic brain injury, with particular attention to sex differences, white matter pathology, and behavioral outcomes. His team has developed and refined the CHIMERA (Closed-Head Impact Model of Engineered Rotational Acceleration) model as a key tool for studying TBI mechanisms. The publications span neuroscience, neuroimaging, behavioral analysis, and molecular biology, reflecting a highly interdisciplinary approach to understanding brain injury and recovery processes.

Among his notable recognitions:

• First recipient of the University's F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine Outstanding Biomedical Graduate Educator Award (1998)
• USUHS President's Outstanding Service Medal (2012)
• F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine Impact Award (2015)

Dr. McCabe has led significant research initiatives including the Program Director for Neuroprotection and Modeling at The Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine (2008-2020). His grant portfolio demonstrates expertise in TBI modeling, neuroprotective strategies, and sex-based differences in injury response. He has mentored numerous researchers in the field of neurotrauma and continues to advance understanding of cellular stress responses following brain injury.

His laboratory maintains a strong focus on translational neuroscience, developing models that bridge basic cellular mechanisms with clinical applications for traumatic brain injury. The team employs advanced techniques including high-speed imaging of impact devices, molecular analysis of stress responses, and comprehensive behavioral assessments to characterize injury mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions.