Scott Ryan

Dr. Scott Ryan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of Guelph. He leads the Ryan Lab, focusing on neurobiology, stem cell-based disease modeling, and synaptic plasticity. His work bridges cellular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer’s with regenerative therapies.

Education: B.Sc. (Biochemistry/Nutrition, Memorial University of Newfoundland, 2003); Ph.D. (Biochemistry, University of Ottawa, 2008); postdoctoral fellowships at Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (2009–2011) and Sanford Burnham Medical Research Institute (2011–2013).

Research interests include: (1) Stem cell modeling of neurodegenerative diseases using human iPSCs to study mitochondrial dysfunction and disease mechanisms; (2) Nitric oxide signaling in synaptic spine dynamics and memory formation; (3) Developing stem cell therapies to repopulate damaged brain tissue.

Recent articles highlight advancements in understanding nitrosative stress, mitochondrial dynamics, and genetic/pharmacological interventions targeting Parkinson’s pathology. Ongoing work integrates high-resolution imaging, biochemical assays, and optogenetic techniques.

Labs/Teams: Ryan Lab at University of Guelph, collaborating on neurodegeneration mechanisms and regenerative strategies.