معرفی
Joshua Havelin is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Thomas College, holding a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences (Neuroscience) from the University of Maine (2019) and a B.S. in Biochemistry and Medical Biology with honors from the University of New England (2011).
His academic background includes:
- Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences (Neuroscience focus), University of Maine, 2019
- B.S. in Biochemistry and Medical Biology (with honors), University of New England, 2011
Dr. Havelin's research investigates chronic pain mechanisms in cancer-induced bone pain and osteoarthritis, focusing on sensory neuron subsets that drive drug-resistant phenotypes. Using transgenic and pharmacological tools, his work identifies distinct pathways for ongoing pain versus movement-evoked breakthrough pain, aiming to discover novel therapeutic targets for poorly managed chronic conditions.
His 2013-2019 publications reveal consistent exploration of pain modulation mechanisms, particularly how kappa opioid receptors, cannabinoid 2 agonists, and specific nociceptor populations (e.g., IB4-binding neurons) influence cancer and osteoarthritis pain. Key trends include dissecting neuroimmune interactions in inflammatory pain and validating exercise interventions for joint pain.
Scientific recognitions include:
- Nominated for Student Mentorship and Advising Award (Spring 2022)
- Society for Neuroscience Trainee Professional Development Award (Fall 2017)
- 1st place in University of New England Spring Undergraduate Research Symposium (Spring 2010)
- University of New England Summer Stipend recipient (Summer 2009)
He actively mentors students as Chemistry Club Advisor (2023-2024) and Pre-Health Professions Advisory Committee member (2022), emphasizing experiential learning. Community engagement includes judging the Maine State Science Fair (2015-2022) and Maine Research Symposium (2022), while his interdisciplinary approach bridges biochemistry with home brewing and cooking hobbies.
Dr. Havelin collaborates with researchers like Tamara King on pain mechanisms, leveraging rodent models to study neuronal contributions to cancer pain. His current role at Thomas College involves developing research infrastructure for undergraduate pain neuroscience projects, though specific lab details remain unstated in available materials.
