معرفی
Kokaia Zaal serves as Professor of Experimental Medical Research in the Department of Clinical Sciences at Lund University's Faculty of Medicine since 2008, concurrently leading the Laboratory of Stem Cells & Restorative Neurology at the Lund Stem Cell Center since 2003 and holding a Visiting Professorship at Tbilisi State University's Faculty of Medicine since 2009.
Education
- 1999 - Docent of Experimental Neurology, Lund University
- 1997 - Doctor of Sciences (DSc), I.Beritashvili Institute of Physiology, Georgian Academy of Sciences
- 1995 - PhD (Philosophy), Lund University
- 1987 - PhD (Candidate of Biological Sciences), I.Beritashvili Institute of Physiology
- 1984 - Master of Biology (Diploma with Honor), Tbilisi State University
Research Focus
His pioneering work integrates stem cell biology with neural repair mechanisms across stroke recovery, neurodegenerative disorders, and regenerative neurology. The laboratory investigates cellular reprogramming techniques to generate neural precursors, neuroprotective strategies against neurodegeneration, and functional restoration through endogenous neurogenesis and transplantation therapies, with significant implications for Parkinson's disease and brain injury treatment.
Scientific Recognition
- Bengt Falck Prize in Neuroscience (2020)
- Georgian National Science Prize (2019)
- GD Alco Award for national development (2018)
- Nino Javakhishvili Medal (2017)
- Multiple honorary doctorates from Georgian institutions
- Election to Lund Physiographic Society (2011)
Leadership & Institutional Impact
As former Director of the Lund Stem Cell Center (2011-2020) and Coordinator of Sweden's StemTherapy Strategic Research Area (2010-2020), he established major national research frameworks. His laboratory drives translational neuroscience through collaborations across European stem cell initiatives, with future work focusing on clinical applications of induced neural stem cells for neurological disorders.
