معرفی
Dr. Ruth Staras is an Associate Professor in Neuroscience at the School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, where she specializes in postgraduate education and curriculum management. She serves as Chair of the Neuroscience Board of Study, Degree Convenor for Neuroscience Masters degrees, and Programme Manager for Sussex Neuroscience, a University Centre of Excellence encompassing approximately 70 labs.
Her academic background includes:
- PhD in Neuroscience (Wellcome Trust 4-year PhD Programme) from University College London (1997-2001)
- BSc Neuroscience from University of Sussex (1994-1997)
- PGCertHE from University of Sussex (2011)
Dr. Staras's research focuses on the neurobiology of disorders of the brain and nervous system, with particular expertise in ion channelopathies. Her work bridges fundamental neuroscience with clinical applications, examining the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neurological disorders. She is particularly interested in supporting inclusive pathways into neuroscience research and fostering a positive research culture both internally and externally.
Her publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on neurological disorders from 1999-2005, with particular emphasis on ion channel function and its implications for disease mechanisms. Her research spans cellular neuroscience, neurophysiology, and clinical neurology, reflecting an interdisciplinary approach to understanding brain disorders through studies on neuronal excitability, synaptic transmission, and cellular pathology.
Dr. Staras has received notable recognition including:
- Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2011)
- BNA Public Engagement Prize 2023
As an educator and academic leader, Dr. Staras has served as Degree Convenor for MSc and MRes Neuroscience programs and as Research Degree Convenor for the Sussex Neuroscience 4-year PhD Programme. She established new Neuroscience MSc and MRes degrees at Sussex in 2014 and continues to lead them. Her teaching spans undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including modules such as Advanced Techniques in Neuroscience, Principles of Neuronal Function, and Current Topics in Neuroscience.
Dr. Staras plays a key leadership role in Sussex Neuroscience, a University Centre of Excellence encompassing about 70 labs. As Programme Manager, she helps deliver on strategic investments to enhance the research community. She also serves as Co-Chair of the Sussex Neuroscience Steering Committee and PhD Committee, contributing to the strategic direction and educational aspects of the neuroscience community at Sussex.
