Maegan Weltzin

Maegan Weltzin is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where she leads the Weltzin lab. Her research focuses on neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in neurological disorders and infectious disease.

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (Neuroscience emphasis), University of Alaska Fairbanks
• Postdoctoral Fellow, Barrow Neurological Institute (2012–2016)
• B.S. in Chemistry with Biochemistry emphasis, University of Alaska Fairbanks

The Weltzin lab investigates nAChR modulation in diseases such as Alzheimer’s, nicotine addiction, epilepsy, and viral infections. Their work spans biochemical assays, electrophysiology, and confocal microscopy to develop novel therapeutics targeting altered cholinergic tone.

Recent publications highlight her expertise in nAChR interactions with viral glycoproteins (e.g., SARS-CoV-2, rabies), epilepsy-related mutations, and allosteric modulation. Collaborations and student mentorship opportunities are actively encouraged.

Contact details:

• Email: mmweltzin@alaska.edu
• Phone: 907-474-6527
• Fax: 907-474-5640
• Address: Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775-6160