Shahzad Khan

Shahzad Khan, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Cell Biology and Physiology at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. His research focuses on neurodegeneration, aging, and signal transduction, utilizing mouse models, neural cultures, human brain samples, and advanced techniques like single-cell transcriptomics and microscopy. He leads the Khan Lab, exploring molecular mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases to identify therapeutic targets.

Education & Training:

• B.Sc. in Chemical Sciences, The Florida State University (2011)
• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, The University of Virginia (2018)
• Postdoctoral Scholar, Stanford University (2018–2023)

Research Interests:

Dr. Khan's work integrates molecular, cellular, and systems-level approaches to study neurodegenerative diseases. Key areas include primary cilia dysfunction in Parkinson's disease, LRRK2 signaling pathways, and the role of aging in neuronal health. His lab employs cutting-edge tools like expansion microscopy and single-cell profiling to uncover disease mechanisms.

Publications & Trends:

Recent work highlights discoveries in LRRK2-driven Parkinson's, including primary cilia loss and Hedgehog signaling dysregulation. Earlier studies explored Alzheimer's pathogenesis, tau protein signaling, and alpha-synuclein's role in neurodegeneration. His research bridges molecular biology and translational medicine, emphasizing therapeutic target identification.

Awards & Honors:

• Jumpstart Award (2022–2023, Stanford University)
• Rising Star Award (2022, UNC Chapel Hill)
• JEDI Champion (2021, Stanford)
• Ruth L. Kirschstein Predoctoral Fellowship (2016–2017, NIH)

Lab & Collaboration:

The Khan Lab at UNC focuses on neurodegenerative mechanisms, with active projects on cilia biology and LRRK2 signaling. Collaborations span Stanford, Washington University, and NIH-funded initiatives. Lab members include postdocs and graduate students engaged in interdisciplinary neuroscience research.