Todd Cohen

Todd Cohen, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neurology at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. His lab focuses on understanding the biochemical mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). He is the Principal Investigator of the Cohen Lab, based in the Neuroscience Research Building at UNC Chapel Hill.

Dr. Cohen completed his PhD at Duke University, where he developed a strong foundation in neurobiology. His research interests include tau and TDP-43 proteinopathies, exploring how post-translational modifications (e.g., acetylation, phosphorylation) drive pathogenic processes. He has been recognized as a Rising Star by The Scientist in 2019 for his contributions to neurodegenerative disease research.

The Cohen Lab employs advanced techniques such as high-dimensional immune profiling, monoclonal antibody development, and transgenic mouse models to study disease mechanisms. Key areas of investigation include immune system interactions in ALS, sleep disruption in tauopathies, and the role of environmental neuroactive chemicals in neurodegeneration. Collaborations with clinicians and researchers across disciplines further advance translational goals.

• Lab Members: The lab includes graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and research associates, such as Julia Lanfersieck, Kyle Pellegrino, Reshma Bhagat, and Ryan Weeks.
• Awards: 2019 Rising Star recognition by The Scientist.
• Outreach: Engages in public education through podcasts, radio interviews (e.g., Radio in Vivo), and media features.

Contact information includes his office at 6109A Neuroscience Research Building and emails: toddcohen@neurology.unc.edu and toddcohen1978@gmail.com.