Kevin Staras

Professor Kevin Staras is a Professor of Neuroscience and Head of Department in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex. He has held his professorship since 2014, previously serving as a Reader in Neuroscience from 2011. His research focuses on neural circuits, synaptic plasticity, and advanced brain mapping techniques using invertebrate models.

Dr. Staras's research interests span Neurosciences, Cognitive Sciences, Psychology, and Biochemistry and Cell Biology, with specific expertise in Synapses, Circuits, Plasticity, Disease mechanisms, and Decision-making processes. His lab employs cutting-edge imaging techniques, particularly synchrotron X-ray tomography, to construct detailed 3D brain atlases of molluscan and snail neural systems.

Recent publications highlight his innovative work in creating comprehensive brain maps that guide the identification and functional characterization of novel cell types in neural networks. This research has significant implications for comparative and functional neuroscience across model organisms.

As Head of Department for Neuroscience, Professor Staras oversees academic programs and research initiatives within the School of Life Sciences. He is actively involved in the Sussex Neuroscience community, which includes over 50 labs conducting research from molecular to systems neuroscience.

The Staras Lab maintains active collaborations with researchers including Crossley, Simon, Roth, and Marra, as well as facilities like Diamond Light Source. These partnerships enhance the lab's capacity for advanced imaging and neural circuit analysis.