Kelly Arnold is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan. Her research integrates systems engineering principles with immunology to investigate variability in immune responses across infection, vaccination, and injury, with a focus on computational modeling and clinical translation. Research Focus Systems-level immune response modeling Vaccination and antibody functionality Vaginal microbiome-host interactions Chronic lung disease progression Computational serology and proteomics Recent Work Her 2025 studies examine SARS-CoV-2 vaccination responses in cancer patients and computational frameworks for vaginal probiotics. Earlier works (2024-2007) span COPD progression, lupus fibrosis, HIV susceptibility, and tissue engineering for fertility preservation. Methodologies include proteomic profiling, network modeling, and microfluidic systems.
Rotem Karni, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Genetics at the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. He leads a research lab focused on understanding how alternative RNA splicing contributes to cancer and genetic diseases, with a strong emphasis on translating these findings into RNA-based therapies. Karni's lab develops decoy oligonucleotides, small molecules, and splice-switching technologies to modulate splicing factors and enhance immunotherapy. Education BSc in Biological Chemistry from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (1997) PhD in Biological Chemistry from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel (2002) Postdoctoral Fellowship at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, NY (2002-2007) Karni's research explores the deregulation of alternative splicing in oncogenesis, particularly how splicing factors like RBFOX2 and S6K1 influence metastasis, DNA repair, and immune checkpoint modulation. His team investigates m6A RNA modifications for stabilizing mutant genes, with applications in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and pancreatic cancer. The lab's work is commercialized through biotech companies: SKIP Therapeutics, Andlit Therapeutics, and RNAble. Selected Research Trends RNA mis-splicing and neoantigen generation (2025) Splicing factor inhibition for tumor suppression (2023) Metastatic splicing signatures in pancreatic cancer (2023) Immune checkpoint splicing in cancer immunotherapy (2021) m6A modulation for mRNA stabilization (2023) Advising & Collaborations Karni has mentored numerous PhD and postdoctoral researchers, many of whom now hold leadership roles in academia, biotech, and medical institutions globally. His lab collaborates extensively on projects involving RNA innovation, including partnerships with the Institute for RNA Innovation. Contact Department of Genetics & Institute for RNA Innovation, One uCity Square, Room 4018, Philadelphia, PA 19104 Phone: 215-898-5072 Email: Rotem.Karni@Upenn.edu
Guoyao Wu is a Distinguished Professor of Animal Nutrition at Texas A&M University's College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, holding dual appointments in the Department of Animal Science and the Graduate Faculty of Nutrition. His expertise spans nutritional biochemistry, protein metabolism, and reproductive physiology. Dr. Wu earned his B.Sc. from South China Agricultural University, M.Sc. degrees from Beijing Agricultural University and the University of Alberta, and a Ph.D. from the University of Alberta, followed by postdoctoral training at McGill University and Memorial University of Newfoundland. His research focuses on amino acid and protein metabolism across molecular, cellular, and whole-animal levels, using models like cattle, pigs, and aquatic species. Key areas include placental nutrient transport, fetal programming, and the role of amino acids in mitigating conditions like sarcopenia and intrauterine growth restriction. He has pioneered studies on glycine, creatine, and citrulline supplementation in livestock and aquaculture. Dr. Wu has received over 15 prestigious awards from China, Canada, and the U.S., including the Thousand-People-Talent Award and Changjiang Scholar Award. He serves on editorial boards of journals like Amino Acids and Frontiers in Bioscience , and teaches graduate courses in protein metabolism. His work bridges basic science and applied nutrition, with implications for improving livestock productivity, human health, and aquaculture sustainability. Current projects address amino acid requirements of companion animals, microgravity effects on metabolism, and placental biology in ruminants.
Dr. Laila Ingrid Muderspach is a Clinical Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology at the University of Southern California (USC) on a part-time basis. She specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic malignancies, emphasizing patient-centered care that addresses physical, emotional, and socioeconomic needs. Her clinical expertise spans surgical and medical interventions for cancers of the female reproductive system, with a focus on improving outcomes through advanced techniques like Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathways and sentinel lymph node biopsies. Dr. Muderspach’s research spans epidemiological trends in gynecologic cancers, including adolescent and young adult (AYA) populations, and the optimization of surgical and chemotherapy protocols. She has contributed to pivotal studies on endometrial and cervical cancer staging, palliative care utilization, and the management of complications in vulvar cancer surgery. Her work also addresses healthcare disparities, such as accessibility to obstetric care and adherence to cancer treatment in underserved communities. Education: Medical degree from an unspecified institution, with training at USC and UCLA. Awards: Over 30 awards including Best Doctors recognition (2009–2014), National Faculty Award (2007), and multiple teaching accolades. Labs/Teams: Active in multidisciplinary gynecologic oncology teams at LAC+USC Medical Center, focusing on surgical innovation and patient safety. Her publications (over 150 listed) reflect a commitment to translational research, including clinical trials for novel therapies like eribulin for cervical cancer and investigations into HPV vaccine impact on cervical lesions.
Preet Singh is a Professor and Associate Chair for Graduate Studies in the School of Materials Science and Engineering at Georgia Tech, with affiliations to the College of Engineering. His research focuses on corrosion science, electrochemistry, and environmental degradation of materials, particularly metals and alloys. Prior to joining Georgia Tech in 2003, he was a faculty member at the Institute of Paper Science and Technology (IPST), where he investigated corrosion issues in the pulp and paper industry. Professor Singh's work explores fundamental mechanisms of material degradation in industrial environments, aiming to develop mitigation strategies against environment-induced failures. Key research areas include corrosion fatigue, hydrogen embrittlement, stress corrosion cracking, and oxidation behavior. His group employs experimental approaches to study material reliability under varying chemical and mechanical conditions. Recent publications demonstrate interdisciplinary collaboration across oncology, agriculture, and energy systems, reflecting broad applications of materials science principles. Research trends show increased focus on biomedical materials and sustainable technologies alongside core corrosion studies. Professor Singh advises graduate students including Abdullah Alzubail, Yousif Al Rabie, Sai Shreeya, Yara, and Sean Li. He directs the Corrosion and Materials Reliability Laboratory (CMCRL), which partners with industry to solve practical engineering challenges related to material performance.
Dr. Lauren Cirrincione is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacy at the University of Washington School of Pharmacy in Seattle, Washington. Her academic appointment is within the Department of Pharmacy, which is part of the School of Pharmacy at the University of Washington. Dr. Cirrincione earned her Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy and a Master of Public Health (MPH) in epidemiology from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. She completed a clinical pharmacology fellowship in HIV at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Dr. Cirrincione's research program addresses mechanisms of hormone-mediated drug interactions, with a primary focus on clinical, translational pharmacology in transgender medicine. Her expertise spans Infectious Diseases, Mechanisms of Drug Interactions, Pharmacokinetics-Pharmacodynamics, Transgender and Gender Diverse Research, and Translational Research. Her work examines how gender-affirming hormone therapy interacts with other medications, particularly antiretrovirals, and investigates the clinical implications of these interactions for transgender patients. She has made significant contributions to understanding estradiol concentrations in gender-affirming therapy, kidney function assessment in gender-diverse populations, and the inclusion of transgender individuals in clinical trials. Her publications demonstrate a consistent focus on improving pharmacological care for transgender and gender-diverse individuals, with recent work examining adolescent transgender medicine, psychotropic medication interactions, and self-injection experiences among transgender people on hormone therapy. Her research bridges clinical pharmacology with gender-affirming care, addressing critical gaps in evidence-based practice for this population. Dr. Cirrincione teaches PHRMCY 535: Pharmacotherapeutics V at the University of Washington School of Pharmacy. Her scientific contributions have advanced the field of transgender pharmacology, with particular emphasis on clinical applications and evidence-based approaches to medication management for transgender patients.
Kristina Schoonjans is an Associate Professor at EPFL’s School of Life Sciences, where she leads the Laboratory of Metabolic Signaling (UPSCHOONJANS). Her research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of bile acid signaling, nutrient sensing, and intermediary metabolism, particularly in the context of metabolic disorders such as obesity, fatty liver disease, and cancer. She investigates how the liver-gut-brain axis integrates metabolic signals through nuclear receptors and mitochondrial dynamics. Her research interests include: Bile acid signaling and its role as a hormonal regulator Nutrient and metabolite sensing in energy homeostasis Intermediary metabolism and metabolic disorders Role of nuclear receptors (e.g., TGR5, LRH-1) in liver, gut, and adipose tissue Mitochondrial dynamics and fission in metabolic regulation Organoid models for studying liver and intestinal metabolism Systems genetics using BXD mouse populations The most recent articles highlight a strong focus on bile acid signaling, particularly through TGR5 and LRH-1, in regulating metabolic health. Themes include the conversion of white fat to beige fat (beiging), hepatic tumorigenesis, mitochondrial fission, and the use of organoid and genetically engineered mouse models. There is a consistent emphasis on translational applications for obesity, fatty liver disease, and cancer. Scientific honors include: Windaus Prize from the Dr. Falk Foundation (2010, shared with Johan Auwerx) for the discovery of the signaling/endocrine function of bile acids Prof. Schoonjans actively supervises PhD students and has advised numerous doctoral candidates who have since completed their theses. Her lab is supported by multiple grants from Swiss and international funding agencies, including the Swiss National Science Foundation, EPFL, CONACYT, and the Foundation for Health and Education. She teaches in several doctoral programs at EPFL, including Life Sciences Engineering, and contributes to education through the SSV and EDBB/EDCB/EDMS-ENS programs. The Schoonjans Lab brings together scientists, doctoral assistants, and technicians working on projects related to metabolic signaling. The team uses advanced techniques such as genetically modified mouse models, organoid cultures, and multi-omics (metabolomics, proteomics, transcriptomics) to study the liver-gut and brain-liver axes. The lab has a strong track record of high-impact publications and collaborations with institutions worldwide.
Monica N. Fornier is a physician scientist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) specializing in breast medical oncology . With a clinical focus on improving outcomes for breast cancer patients, she has particular expertise in bone health related to cancer therapies. Fluent in English, Italian, and French, Dr. Fornier treats international patients and contributes to multidisciplinary care teams. Education: MD from University of Milan (Italy), residency and fellowship at University Hospital of Milan and MSK Certifications: Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Medical Oncology (Europe) Her research spans neoadjuvant endocrine therapy , bone loss prevention in cancer patients, and HER2-positive breast cancer treatment beyond trastuzumab. Recent publications address ER+/HER2- breast cancer immune responses, alopecia management in survivors, and regulatory T cell mechanisms . Dr. Fornier has received multiple Castle Connolly Top Doctor awards (2023-2025) and participates in MSK clinical trials for novel cancer treatments.
Jelena Kravarusic, MD, PhD serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, specializing within the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine. She maintains active clinical practice at Northwestern Memorial Hospital with board certification in Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism. Her educational foundation includes: MD from University of Novi Sad (1997) PhD from University of Illinois, Chicago (2004) Internal Medicine Residency and Chief Medical Residency at Mercy Hospital, Chicago (2008) Endocrinology Fellowship at Northwestern University, McGaw Medical Center (2010) Dr. Kravarusic's research pioneers diabetes technology integration into clinical practice, with emphasis on automated insulin delivery systems and continuous glucose monitoring . Her work bridges engineering innovations with patient-centered care models, particularly investigating real-world implementation challenges for type 1 and type 2 diabetes management. Current projects focus on optimizing human-technology interaction through user-centered design principles. Publication analysis reveals a clear trajectory toward technology-driven diabetes therapeutics , with recent high-impact clinical trials (including NEJM 2025 publication) demonstrating significant contributions to evidence-based guidelines. Her collaborative approach spans multi-center studies addressing critical gaps in automated insulin delivery efficacy and discontinuation protocols. Teaching excellence defines her academic contributions: 2024 Teaching Pin from Augusta Webster Office of Medical Education 2021 Division Faculty Teaching Award from Department of Medicine 2021 Teaching Pin from Augusta Webster Office of Medical Education As clinician-educator, she actively mentors medical trainees while maintaining robust industry partnerships with AbbVie, Bayer, MannKind, and Tandem Technologies related to diabetes technology innovation. Her clinical practice at 645 N Michigan Avenue integrates research findings into patient care. Professional engagement includes active membership in the Endocrine Society (2023-present) and leadership within Northwestern's diabetes research consortium focused on next-generation therapeutic delivery systems.
Brinton Seashore-Ludlow is an Associate Professor at the Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute (KI), where he serves as team leader in Olli Kallioniemi's research group and group leader of the biology team at Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden (CBCS), SciLifeLab's national infrastructure. PhD in Biochemistry, KTH Royal Institute of Technology (2012) MSc in Chemical Biology, California Institute of Technology (2007) BA in Biochemistry, Macalester College (2001) His research bridges precision medicine and cancer biology through: Developing ex vivo patient-derived models for drug response prediction Molecular determinants of therapeutic efficacy Integration of high-content imaging with translational studies Focus on ovarian, breast, and pediatric cancers AI-driven analysis of drug sensitivity data Recent articles demonstrate: 3D tumor spheroid platforms for drug testing Epigenetic regulators in neuroblastoma Microfluidics for high-throughput assays Cancer-stroma interactions in treatment resistance Clinical validation of precision diagnostics He co-organizes the Overview Course in Cancer Drug Discovery at KI and leads projects funded by the Swedish Childhood Cancer Foundation.
Angelica Lindén Hirschberg is a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology (specializing in reproductive medicine) at Karolinska Institutet and a Senior Consultant in gynecological endocrinology at Karolinska University Hospital. She holds dual roles in academic leadership and clinical practice, focusing on disorders of reproductive function, endocrine-metabolic dysfunction, and hormonal conditions in women. Her affiliations include the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Reproductive Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Group, and the Division for Neonatology, Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Reproductive Health. Education and Career: MD (Karolinska Institutet, 1984) PhD (Karolinska Institutet, 1989) Professor in Obstetrics and Gynecology (2007) Board member of international societies (ISGE, EMAS) Research Focus: Her translational research spans PCOS, obesity-related reproductive dysfunction, premature ovarian insufficiency, and disorders of sex development. Projects include hormonal impacts on athletic performance, immune therapy for ovarian dysfunction, and endometrial cell biology. Collaborations involve national/international networks and clinical trials (e.g., PROBES trial). Publications: Recent work emphasizes PCOS pathophysiology, menopausal health, and hormonal interventions in athletes. Key trends include single-cell profiling of endometrium, immunomodulatory therapies for POI, and non-hormonal treatments for vasomotor symptoms. Awards: King’s Seraphim Medal (2018) 2016 Grand Prize in Sport Science Appointed Royal Gynecologist (2009) Teaching and Mentorship: Coordinates courses on reproductive endocrinology, supervises PhD students (e.g., Esin Ylmaz), and chairs the PhD Study Director at her department. Authored over 25 book chapters on women’s health and sports medicine. Grants and Labs: Secured Swedish Research Council funding for POI trials. Her lab integrates experimental (Bioclinicum) and clinical (Women’s Health Research Unit) research.
Stephen A. Boyd is a University Distinguished Professor in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences within Michigan State University's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. His research spans environmental chemistry and microbiology with a focus on soil systems. His educational background includes a B.S. in Chemistry from Central Michigan University (1975), and M.S. and Ph.D. in Soil Chemistry from Purdue University (1978, 1980). Dr. Boyd's research investigates organic contaminant movement in soil, microbial/catalytic degradation mechanisms, and remediation technologies for contaminated soils/sediments. His work features innovative approaches including chemically modified clays for contaminant sorption and degradation, mechanistic studies of toxicant interactions with natural/modified clays, and development of in-situ soil modification technologies. He extensively examines biodegradation of xenobiotics (particularly PCB reductive dechlorination) and bioavailability of soil-bound contaminants to degrading bacteria. His 15 most recent publications reveal strong trends in clay-based contaminant immobilization, pharmaceutical/water pollutant interactions, dioxin chemistry, and nanomaterial applications for environmental remediation, with dominant fields being environmental chemistry, soil science, and contaminant toxicology. University Distinguished Professor (MSU, 2005) Jackson Award in Soil Science (SSSA, 2004) Highly Cited Researcher (Institute for Scientific Information, 2002) Distinguished Faculty Award (MSU, 2001) Soil Science Research Award (SSSA, 1999) Dr. Boyd has secured significant research funding including a recent $750K USDA grant (2022) for PFAS mitigation research. His laboratory focuses on clay chemistry applications for environmental remediation, with notable breakthroughs in soil cleansing technologies and biochar applications. Current work emphasizes advanced contaminant degradation pathways and practical field applications of his soil modification technologies.
Dr. Charlotte Kuperwasser is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Developmental, Molecular, and Chemical Biology at Tufts University School of Medicine . She directs the Tufts Convergence Laboratory and focuses on molecular mechanisms governing breast tissue development, cancer prevention, and organoid technologies. Her work integrates stem cell biology, epigenetics, and environmental influences such as endocrine disruptors. Education: Bachelor of Science (1997), University of Massachusetts Amherst PhD (2000), University of Massachusetts Amherst Jane Coffin Childs Postdoctoral Fellow (MIT/Whitehead Institute) Research Interests: Her lab develops 3D breast organoid models to study cancer initiation, microenvironmental interactions, and BRCA1-related mechanisms. Recent efforts include analyzing HPV-driven cancers via circulating tumor DNA and studying fibroblast signaling (e.g., DDR1) in tumor progression. Grants & Awards: Howard Hughes Fellowship, Merck Fellowship COG/Aventis Young Investigator Award Natalie V. Zucker Award NIH grants on V-ATPases and obesity-cancer links Professional Contributions: She chairs Tufts’ Sackler Convergence Laboratory and serves on AACR committees. Teaching includes courses on Molecular Cell Biology of Development and Cancer Genetics . Labs/Teams: Leads the Kuperwasser Lab, focusing on translational cancer research with cross-disciplinary collaborations in organoid engineering and clinical diagnostics.
Dr. Richard E. Hayden is a Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona. He holds leadership roles as Associate Dean at Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences and Education Director at the Mayo Clinic Center for Regenerative Biotherapeutics. His clinical and academic work centers on head and neck oncology, reconstructive surgery, and regenerative medicine. Dr. Hayden earned his MDCM from McGill University in 1974 and completed fellowships in Head and Neck Surgery-Oncology at M.D. Anderson Hospital and Radiation Oncology at Princess Margaret Hospital. He also holds advanced training in facial plastic surgery. His research spans head and neck cancer, microvascular and reconstructive surgery, transoral laser microsurgery, and regenerative medicine. He has pioneered techniques in flap reconstruction and contributed significantly to understanding postoperative outcomes and surgical innovations. His work emphasizes oncologic safety, functional preservation, and minimally invasive approaches. His recent publications (2018–2024) reflect a strong focus on transoral surgery, flap reconstruction (including submental and free flaps), mucosal-sparing radiation, and regenerative medicine education. Themes include surgical outcomes, reconstructive innovation, and interdisciplinary training in emerging therapies like CAR-T cells and regenerative healthcare. Dean's Award, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (2022) Distinguished Educator Award, Mayo Clinic Arizona (2016) Distinguished Service Award, American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery (2006) Honorary Member, German Society of Laryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (2007) Multiple Visiting Professorships and Keynote Speaker invitations Dr. Hayden has mentored numerous trainees and led major educational initiatives, including regenerative medicine and CAR-T curricula. He has held leadership positions such as Chair of Otolaryngology (2002–2014) and active roles in national societies. His research is supported by institutional affiliations and collaborative grants, particularly in regenerative biotherapeutics. He is involved in multiple labs and teams focused on head and neck reconstruction, surgical innovation, and regenerative medicine translation.
Prof. Dr. med. Franz Lennard Ricklefs is a Senior Physician and Head of the Working Group at the Department of Neurosurgery, University of Hamburg Faculty of Medicine. He is a Medical Specialist in Neurosurgery with cross-disciplinary expertise in neuro-oncology, molecular pathology, and extracellular vesicle research. Affiliations: University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), European Liquid Biopsy Society (ELBS), International Consortium on Meningiomas (ICOM) Research Interests: His work focuses on neurosurgical oncology, particularly glioblastoma and meningioma pathobiology. He investigates DNA methylation patterns, extracellular vesicle biomarkers, and liquid biopsy implementation in clinical neuro-oncology. Additional interests include surgical outcomes for epilepsy and aneurysm management. Article Trends: Over the last decade, Dr. Ricklefs has published extensively on: Extracellular vesicle applications as liquid biopsy markers DNA methylation subclasses for glioblastoma and meningioma Multicenter surgical outcome benchmarking Immune evasion mechanisms in neuro-oncology Technological innovations in neurosurgical visualization Molecular characterization of rare CNS tumors Professional Contributions: He co-authored the MISEV2023 guidelines for extracellular vesicle studies and participates in international consensus reviews for meningioma classification. His collaborations span institutions across Europe and North America.
