M. Leandro Heien

Dr. M. Leandro Heien is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Arizona, part of the College of Science. His research focuses on developing novel measurement platforms for studying neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, with applications in neuropsychiatric disorders. He holds a B.S. from Truman State University (2000), a Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2005), and completed postdoctoral research at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2005–2007) and Penn State University (2007–2010).

Research Interests: The Heien Lab employs electrochemical and mass spectrometric techniques to study real-time neurotransmitter dynamics in vivo. Key areas include dopamine release mechanisms, neuropeptide signaling in mood regulation, and instrument development for precision measurement. Their work bridges analytical chemistry and neuroscience, with implications for addiction and mental health therapies.

Advising & Lab: The lab has a strong track record, with a 100% PhD graduation rate (n=11) and an average PhD duration of ~5 years. Current students include Andrea Hamilton, Nathan Weintraub, and Chidiebere Ogbu, while notable alumni include Dr. Blake Seaton and Dr. Chenxi Liu. The lab actively explores software development for data analysis and drug stability studies.

Lab Mission: The Heien Lab aims to advance Measurement Science, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration between chemistry, neuroscience, and clinical applications. Their work seeks to decode neural communication pathways and translate findings into therapeutic strategies.