Susanne Bechstedt

Susanne Bechstedt is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology at McGill University, Montréal, Canada. She leads the Bechstedt Lab, which explores how microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) control cytoskeletal dynamics during mitosis and how their misregulation underlies cancer and neurodegenerative disease.

Education:

• PhD – Max Planck Institute, Structural Biology

Research Interests:

Our group integrates structural biology, cell biology, and biophysics to dissect how microtubules and MAPs orchestrate cellular processes. Using single-molecule TIRF microscopy, cryo-electron microscopy, and CRISPR-mediated live-cell imaging, we ask how MAPs tune microtubule growth, shrinkage, and stability to build the mitotic spindle and maintain neuronal architecture. We are particularly focused on the spindle protein CKAP2 and its role in preventing chromosomal instability, as well as on the Parkinsonism-linked protein TPPP/p25 in the context of neurodegeneration.

Publication Trends:

Since 2019 the lab has published a steady stream of high-impact papers in Cell, PNAS, eLife, Current Biology, and Cell Cycle. Recurrent themes include the structural basis of microtubule–MAP interactions, the cellular functions of CKAP2 in mitosis, and the aggregation behaviour of TPPP in neurodegenerative disease. Collectively, these works advance our understanding of cytoskeletal regulation in both health and disease.

Scientific Awards & Funding:

• CIHR Operating Grant, 5-year renewal (2023–2028)
• CIHR Operating Grant, inaugural cycle (2018–2023)
• CFI Infrastructure Grant for TIRF microscope (2017)
• HBHL Fellowship awarded to master’s student Nicholas (2024–2025)
• CRBS Masters Studentship awarded to Nicholas (2024)
• CRBS Scientific Image Contest winners: Lia Paim & Tatiana Lyalina (2024)

Advising & Training:

Dr Bechstedt has mentored a diverse cohort that now includes 1 MSc student, 2 PhD students, 3 post-docs, and several research assistants. Alumni have gone on to defend their theses (Thomas McAlear, PhD 2023; Azriel Lopez-Jauregui, MSc 2020) and continue in research positions worldwide.

Lab Culture & Outreach:

The Bechstedt Lab fosters a collaborative environment in the Strathcona Anatomy & Dentistry Building. Regular lab retreats, BBQs, and participation in conferences such as CSMB and DivIDE keep the team scientifically and socially engaged. The lab website and Twitter feed (@BechstedtLab) provide real-time updates on publications, awards, and opportunities to join the team.