Samuel Ojosnegros Martos is currently the Head of the Bioengineering in Reproductive Health group at the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC). His research focuses on integrating advanced bioengineering techniques with reproductive biology to develop innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Affiliated with IBEC Specializes in Bioengineering and Reproductive Health Utilizes hyperspectral imaging and artificial intelligence Focuses on embryo-microbe interactions and protein dynamics Research Interests: Dr. Ojosnegros' work spans multiple disciplines including: Label-free embryo classification systems Metabolic imaging of reproductive cells Protein oligomerization dynamics Wnt signaling in intestinal crypt organization Microenvironment engineering for reproductive health Biophotonic diagnostic tools Recent Publications: His research output demonstrates expertise in hyperspectral imaging, protein dynamics, and tissue patterning technologies applied to reproductive and developmental biology. Key trends include AI integration in embryo evaluation and advanced optical techniques for cellular analysis. Collaborations: Works with institutions like University of Barcelona and clinical partners, advancing translational applications in fertility medicine and regenerative therapies.
Anna Seriola Petit is a researcher at the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), affiliated with the University of Barcelona. Her work focuses on bioengineering applications in reproductive health, leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as hyperspectral imaging, artificial intelligence, and quantitative microscopy. Her recent publications highlight advancements in embryo and oocyte analysis through: METAPHOR: A metabolic evaluation framework using phasor-based hyperspectral imaging ROBUST CLASSIFICATION: AI-driven label-free embryo assessment Protein oligomerization dynamics in live cells Her research bridges biomedical signal processing, nanobioengineering, and cellular mechanobiology to address challenges in reproductive medicine.
Nicholas Leyland is a Professor in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at McMaster University. His scholarly activity spans clinical research, guideline development, and surgical innovation, with a focus on reproductive health and women's health disparities. His research interests include Endometriosis pathophysiology Uterine fibroid management Minimally invasive gynecological surgery Development of national clinical practice guidelines Endometrial ablation techniques Placenta accreta spectrum disorders Recent publications highlight trends in Translational research on hormonal influences in endometriosis Evaluation of pharmacological agents like GnRH antagonists Implementation of standardized surgical protocols Health equity in reproductive care He has contributed to over 30 clinical guidelines and maintains active collaborations across Canadian institutions, focusing on improving clinical outcomes through evidence-based practice.
Dr. Melanie R. McReynolds serves as Assistant Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Pennsylvania State University, holding the Dorothy Foehr Huck and J. Lloyd Huck Early Career Chair. She maintains dual affiliations with the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Biosciences Program. Her academic foundation includes: B.S. in Chemistry and Physics from Alcorn State University M.S. in Biological Sciences via Penn State's NIH-funded Bridges to the Doctorate Program Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Microbiology and Molecular Biology from Penn State University Dr. McReynolds' research centers on metabolic decline during aging, with emphasis on NAD+ homeostasis and stress response mechanisms. Her laboratory employs high-resolution liquid-chromatography mass spectrometry coupled with in vivo isotope tracing to investigate how metabolism adapts to acute and chronic stress in age-related disease models. This work aims to identify targetable molecular pathways for restoring youthful metabolism through therapeutics and nutraceuticals. Analysis of her 14 most recent publications (2014-2021) reveals three dominant research trajectories: NAD+ flux dynamics in aging models, CD38-mediated NAD+ depletion during senescence, and metabolic adaptations in stress-induced aging. Her work spans model organisms from C. elegans to mammals, with increasing focus on translational applications in cancer and neurodegenerative disorders since 2020. Her scientific contributions have been recognized through: HHMI Hanna H. Gray Fellows Program (2018) Burroughs Wellcome Fund Postdoctoral Research Enrichment Program (2018) Inaugural Intersections Science Fellowship (2021) University of Utah Rising Stars in Metabolism (2021) Dr. McReynolds actively mentors trainees across career stages while securing research funding through her HHMI Hanna H. Gray award and pursuing additional external grants. Her lab operates with structured goals to answer fundamental questions about metabolic aging, attract sustained funding, and provide comprehensive training opportunities that emphasize diversity in science. The McReynolds Laboratory in Huck Life Sciences Building maintains three core research thrusts: NAD+ Homeostasis, Whole-Body Mass Balance, and Stress-Induced Aging and Disease. The lab culture prioritizes showcasing excellence through diverse scientific perspectives while developing therapeutic strategies for age-related metabolic disorders.
Ananth Kumar Kammala, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) Galveston . As a Research Scientist in the Menon Lab , his work focuses on maternal-fetal interface , extracellular vesicles , and preterm birth intervention. Established pharmacokinetic parameters for exosomes as novel drug delivery systems PI on two NICHD-funded projects: P-gp/NHERF-1 network mechanisms IL-10 encapsulated exosomes for preterm birth prevention His research bridges traditional medicine (Ayurvedic and Chinese systems) with modern pharmacokinetics , targeting inflammatory pathways and drug transporter proteins . Recent publications highlight 3D-printed feto-maternal models and sex-specific gene expression in chorion cells. Collaborations include Michigan State University (allergic asthma research), Hong Kong Baptist University (TCM studies), and UTMB's interdisciplinary teams. Current projects align with UTMB's Life Span Health strategic pillar.
Dr. Styliani Goulopoulou is an Associate Professor at Loma Linda University School of Medicine with dual appointments in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics and the Physiology Division of Basic Sciences. Her academic career spans over two decades with 75 publications to date, demonstrating sustained research productivity from 2004 through 2025. Dr. Goulopoulou's research program centers on women's cardiovascular health with emphasis on maternal vascular physiology of pregnancy in health and disease. Her work integrates vascular physiology expertise with collaborations in genetics, computational biology, and maternal-fetal medicine to develop evidence-based frameworks for understanding how pregnancy history influences women's lifelong vascular health. Current funded projects investigate the role of circulating cell-free mitochondrial DNA in maternal cardiovascular dysfunction in preeclampsia using multi-method approaches spanning cellular models to human clinical data. Her publication record reveals a clear trajectory toward understanding the developmental programming of cardiovascular disease risk through pregnancy experiences. Recent work has expanded to investigate how gynecologic diseases contribute to cardiovascular disease risk and adverse outcomes, with increasing integration of machine learning approaches for predicting pregnancy outcomes. Consulting Editor for AJP-Heart and Circulatory Physiology Editorial Board member for Journal of Hypertension Council member for Perinatal Research Society (2016-present) Member of Society for Reproductive Investigation Government Affairs Committee (2011-present) As an educator and mentor, Dr. Goulopoulou serves on multiple PhD thesis committees at Loma Linda University and other institutions, demonstrating commitment to training the next generation of researchers. Her involvement in NIH study sections and as a grant reviewer for the Canadian government highlights her national and international recognition in the field. Dr. Goulopoulou also actively promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in science through participation in relevant initiatives and presentations.
Colin Saldanha is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at American University, focusing on neuroendocrinology, neuroplasticity, and estrogen signaling mechanisms in the brain. His research explores compartment-specific hormone synthesis and its impact on learning, memory, and neuroprotection. PhD in Biopsychology, Columbia University BA in Biology & Psychology, Gustavus Adolphus College Current research investigates synaptocrine signaling , where estrogen is synthesized in synaptic boutons and astroglia to regulate neural function. His work spans neuroinflammation, brain injury recovery, and avian behavioral endocrinology. Recent publications (2010-2011) analyze neurochemical pathways in songbirds, synaptic hormone delivery, and steroid assay methodologies. Trends include estrogen's role in neuroprotection , aggression-related neuroendocrinology , and avian cognitive studies . Scientific Recognition Hillman Award for Graduate Advising Nominee (2010) Stabler Award for Excellence in Teaching (2006) Libsch Early Career Research Award (2005) Lindback Foundation Minority Faculty Award (2003) Grants include NIH RO1 funding (2002-2013) for synaptic aromatase research and NSF support (2011-2013) for neuroendocrinology meetings. His lab trains graduate researchers like Kelli Duncan and Bradley Walters.
Omid Khorram, MD, PhD is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Surgery at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying uterine fibroid (leiomyoma) pathogenesis, with a particular emphasis on microRNA regulation, long non-coding RNA functions, tryptophan metabolism, and epigenetic modifications. He has secured multiple NIH grants (R01HD109286, R01HD100529, R03HD101852) as Principal Investigator to investigate these pathways. Key Research Grants : R01HD109286 (2022-2027): Tryptophan metabolism in fibroid pathogenesis R01HD100529 (2020-2025): Long non-coding RNA mechanisms Research Themes : MiR-29c and MiR-200c regulation of fibroid growth Role of long non-coding RNAs (XIST, MIAT, LINCMD1) Epigenetic and metabolic dysregulation in leiomyomas Impact of maternal undernutrition on offspring vascular development His recent collaborative publications (2020-2024) demonstrate consistent focus on microRNA interactions , inflammatory pathways , and translational research in humans and animal models. Notable co-authors include Thomas Chuang and Thomas Magee, with studies involving transcriptomic analysis and preclinical therapeutics . The research spans Reproductive Medicine , Molecular Biology , and Physiology domains, often bridging basic science with clinical applications .
Monica Gabriela Ferrini is a Professor at the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science within the Department of Health & Life Sciences. Her work focuses on the role of nitric oxide in erectile dysfunction, fibrosis, and age-related pathologies, with a strong emphasis on preclinical models of diabetes, obesity, and neurovascular injury. Her research spans multiple disciplines including Reproductive Medicine , Urology , Endocrinology , and Cell Biology . Recent publications highlight collaborations in stem cell therapy for erectile dysfunction, nutraceutical interventions, and the impact of environmental toxins like bisphenol A on metabolic programming. Dr. Ferrini's 2024 work on Nutraceutical and low energy shockwave treatments demonstrates her innovative approach to reversing pelvic injury effects. Earlier studies (2019-2023) explore oxidative stress modulation, vitamin D's role in tissue repair, and the interplay between diabetes and fibrosis.
Chad L. Barber is a Professor of Biology at California Lutheran University, affiliated with the School of Science and Technology. His research spans cellular biology, immunology, cancer biology, and stem cell biology, with a focus on vascular development and hematopoiesis. Education: M.S. in Biology from California State University, Northridge (reproductive biology, sperm-egg interactions); Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from UCLA. Research: Former work in vascular biology and developmental hematopoiesis at UCLA, current teaching in Introductory Biology, Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Cancer Biology, and Immunology. Contact: Office: SSC 202; Phone: (805) 493-3873; Email: cbarber@callutheran.edu .
Dr. Violeta Heras Domínguez is a Researcher affiliated with the Department of Physiology and the Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS) at the University of Córdoba. She holds a PhD (2019) from the same institution, focusing on 'New regulatory mechanisms of the central control of puberty: analysis of the role of ceramide signaling and the mkrn3/mir-30b system,' supervised by Dr. Manuel José Tena Sempere and Dr. Juan Manuel Castellano. Her work primarily investigates the neuroendocrine regulation of puberty, metabolic pathways in obesity, and molecular mechanisms linking metabolic dysfunction to reproductive health. She is part of the MetaMol group studying Molecular Metabolism. Research interests include: (1) Central nervous system signaling pathways regulating puberty timing, (2) Metabolic syndrome comorbidities with reproductive disorders, (3) Epigenetic regulation of hypothalamic neurons, (4) Role of ceramides and lipid mediators in developmental physiology. Her recent work emphasizes sex-specific metabolic responses, gut-brain axis interactions, and therapeutic targets for fibrosis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches combining molecular biology, mouse models, and clinical correlations. Key findings include obesity-induced precocious puberty mechanisms, FGF21's role in breastfeeding benefits, and p63's involvement in hepatic fibrosis. Research has been published in high-impact journals with a focus on endocrinology, physiology, and molecular medicine. Advising/Grants: No specific students or grants listed in provided texts. Lab affiliations include CIMUS and MetaMol group collaborations. Current projects likely involve extending puberty regulation studies to translational medicine applications.
Dominic Cram is a Lecturer in Ecology and Conservation at the University of East Anglia, School of Biological Sciences, and a member of the Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Conservation. He joined UEA in July 2024, after a brief position at Edinburgh Napier University. His research focuses on behavioural ecology, particularly cooperation and conflict in social animals, including Kalahari meerkats and human-honeyguide mutualisms. University: University of East Anglia School: School of Biological Sciences Position: Lecturer in Ecology and Conservation Email: D.Cram@uea.ac.uk ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8790-8294 His research is centered on understanding cooperation and conflict across biological levels, with key interests in interspecies cooperation, cooperative breeding, intergroup conflict, life-history trade-offs, and human-wildlife cooperation. He co-founded an international consortium on human-wildlife cooperation and leads research on the human-honeyguide mutualism with Prof. Claire Spottiswoode. His work integrates field studies, physiological assays, and evolutionary theory. His recent publications span topics in molecular ecology, behavioural biology, and conservation, with a strong focus on telomere dynamics, oxidative stress, social dominance, and mutualism stability. Trends in his research show a consistent emphasis on the physiological and evolutionary underpinnings of social behaviour in wild populations, particularly in arid-zone species. He frequently publishes in high-impact journals such as Proceedings of the Royal Society B , Molecular Ecology , and PLoS Biology . Scientific contributions include: Defining and conserving human-wildlife cooperation as a global phenomenon Revealing that dominant meerkats age faster but live longer due to reduced extra-group risks Investigating how meerkat pups’ early-life conditions affect telomere length and survival Exploring oxidative costs of reproduction and cognition in wild animals Dominic Cram actively mentors students and welcomes PhD applicants. He teaches field ecology and has been involved in postdoctoral training and collaborative grant applications, including Leverhulme and Marie Curie fellowships. He has no listed formal awards in the provided text, but his work has been widely disseminated through popular science outlets like The Conversation , New Scientist , and National Geographic . He is involved with the Kalahari Meerkat Project and has contributed to long-term datasets on meerkat behaviour and physiology. His interdisciplinary approach combines ecology, evolution, physiology, and conservation, with strong international collaborations across Africa and Europe.
Ester Anton Martorell is a PhD researcher in the Department of Cellular Biology, Physiology and Immunology at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB). Her work focuses on reproductive biology, genetics, and molecular mechanisms underlying chromosomal integrity in gametes. She is actively involved in research projects addressing the impact of microplastics on reproductive health and the molecular basis of human sperm function. Education: PhD in Cellular Biology (2008, UAB) Master's in Advanced Studies (DEA, 2002, UAB) Bachelor's in Biology (2000, UAB) Research Interests: Dr. Martorell's research spans sperm biology, chromosomal abnormalities, and the role of microbiome in fertility. Her work combines genomic and cytogenetic approaches to understand reproductive health mechanisms. Recent Projects: NANOPLASTICS AS EMERGING POLLUTANTS: Investigating microplastic effects on terrestrial mammal reproduction (2024–2028). Descifrando el pasaporte molecular de los espermatozoides humanos fecundantes: Molecular markers for male infertility diagnosis (2022–2025). Grants & Collaborations: Engaged in multidisciplinary studies with collaborators in reproductive medicine and genetics, focusing on chromosomal pairing mechanisms and sperm microbiome analysis. Labs/Teams: Member of the Genome Integrity and Reproductive Biology research group at UAB.
Dr. Tamar Avin-Wittenberg is a Group Leader in the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Her research focuses on plant cellular recycling mechanisms, particularly autophagy, and its role in metabolic adaptation during development and stress conditions. She investigates how plants manage energy resources by degrading cellular components to enhance resilience and yield potential. Education: BSc in Life Sciences (Ben-Gurion University, 2003), MSc in Immunology (Weizmann Institute, 2006), PhD in Plant Sciences (Weizmann Institute, 2012), and Postdoc in Plant Metabolism (Max Planck Institute, Germany, 2016). Research Interests: Autophagy's role in lipid metabolism, stress responses, seed development, and metabolic reprogramming. Her work bridges molecular mechanisms with whole-plant physiology, aiming to improve crop tolerance and yield through metabolic insights. Lab Members: Includes PhD/MSc students (Shahar Weiss, May Barani Maung, Yakov Zelzer, etc.) and research interns. Alumni include Dr. Sahar Magen (2020–2025). Publications Highlight: Over 30 peer-reviewed articles, including studies on autophagy-lipid interactions, seed development regulation, and metabolic adaptations under stress. Key work published in Plant Physiology , New Phytologist , and Autophagy .
Professor Ben Simons is a faculty member at the University of Cambridge, affiliated with the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics and serving as a Senior Group Leader at the Wellcome Trust-CRUK Gurdon Institute. With a background in theoretical condensed matter physics, he has pioneered the application of non-equilibrium statistical physics and mathematical modeling to stem cell biology. His research focuses on stem cell fate dynamics in tissue development, maintenance, and disease, particularly in epithelial tissues like brain, epidermis, intestine, lung, and testis. He has developed innovative lineage tracing methodologies and single-cell analysis frameworks to understand stochastic renewal programs and cellular reprogramming in cancer. Key publications reveal trends in computational stem cell biology , clonal competition , and mechanistic modeling of tissue architecture . His group collaborates extensively across developmental biology , cancer research , and regenerative medicine . Scientific accolades include: Royal Society EP Abraham Professorship Wellcome Trust Investigator Award Royal Society Research Fellowship Herchel Smith Chair in Physics The Simons Group includes researchers like Lemonia Chatzeli (Research Assistant) and Yanbo Yin (PhD Student), working at the Gurdon Institute on projects spanning stem cell homeostasis, tumor initiation, and human epithelial development using 3D organoid models .
