M. Kerry O'Banion

M. Kerry O'Banion, M.D., Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Departments of Neuroscience and Neurology at the University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry. He holds a tenured position since 2002 and serves as Vice Chair of the Department of Neuroscience. His academic journey includes a B.S. in Biology (summa cum laude) from the University of Illinois, followed by an M.D. and Ph.D. in Microbiology from the same institution. He completed postdoctoral training in Endocrinology and Metabolism at the University of Rochester.

Dr. O'Banion's research focuses on neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease and radiation-induced brain injury. His lab explores the role of cytokines, microglial activation, and inflammatory mediators in neurodegenerative processes. Notable projects include studying IL-1β's impact on amyloid plaque clearance and tau pathology, as well as radiation effects on cognitive function and microglial dynamics.

His honors include the Edmund J. James Scholar, Phi Kappa Phi, and multiple teaching awards. He leads interdisciplinary collaborations, including work on radiation countermeasures and Alzheimer's therapeutic strategies. Dr. O'Banion's lab is affiliated with the Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, Environmental Health Sciences Center, and Wilmot Cancer Center.

• Education: B.S. Biology (1980), M.D./Ph.D. Microbiology (1987), all from University of Illinois.
• Key Research Themes: Neuroinflammation, Alzheimer's pathology, radiation biology, microglial signaling.
• Awards: George W. Corner Teaching Scholar (1996–1999), Graduate Student Society Teaching Award (1998).