Nathan A. Smith

Nathan A. Smith is an Associate Professor of Neuroscience and Associate Dean for Research Mentorship at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. He holds administrative roles in the Dean's Office and leads the 'Science of Neuro-Glia Interaction' laboratory. His research focuses on neuromodulator-mediated interactions between neurons, astrocytes, and microglia in health and disease, particularly in ADHD, epilepsy, and insulin resistance. Dr. Smith earned his B.S. in Biology from Xavier University (2002) and M.S./Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Rochester (2010/2013). His postdoctoral training included positions at the University of Utah (2013-2015), Boston University, and Children's National Hospital. He is a 2021 AAAS Fellow and has been recognized for advancing diversity in neuroscience.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science, Biology - Xavier University of Louisiana (2002)
• MS, Neuroscience - University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry (2010)
• PhD, Neuroscience - University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry (2013)

Research Interests: Dr. Smith investigates how neuromodulators like norepinephrine regulate neuro-glial interactions. His lab employs transgenic models, electrophysiology, and imaging techniques to study astrocyte roles in synaptic plasticity and disease. Current projects explore astrocytic lipid release in epilepsy and the role of locus coeruleus in memory formation.

Key Achievements:

• Recipient of 2021 AAAS Fellowship
• 2020 Cell Press '1000 Inspiring Black Scientists'
• 2019 University of Rochester Neuroscience Alumni Award
• 2018 Children's National President's Award for Innovation

Advising & Grants: Dr. Smith mentors postdoctoral fellows and graduate students in the Neuroscience PhD and Medical Scientist Training programs. His grants include NIH, NSF, and DOD funding for projects on neuro-glial crosstalk and biomarker identification in neurological disorders. He advocates for DEI initiatives, co-authoring strategies for inclusive labs and journals.

Lab & Collaborations: The Smith Lab is affiliated with the Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience and collaborates with institutions like Children's National Research Institute. Ongoing projects include studying astrocyte modulation of sensory transmission and developing tools for mitochondrial research.