Christopher A. Price is a Professor at the Faculté de médecine vétérinaire of Université de Montréal, affiliated with the Département de biomédecine vétérinaire and the Centre de recherche en reproduction et fertilité (CRRF). With a BSc from University of Nottingham and PhD from Edinburgh University, his research focuses on bovine reproductive physiology, particularly ovarian follicle development and regulation by growth factors. Education: BSc – University of Nottingham, UK PhD – University of Edinburgh, Scotland His work investigates molecular mechanisms of follicular atresia, Hippo signaling in ovulation, and impacts of mycotoxins like deoxynivalenol on ovarian function. Recent publications highlight roles of FNDC adipokines, Wnt signaling, and phosphatases in granulosa/theca cell interactions. Active grants include: FRQNT Strategic Group Grant (2024–2031) NSERC Discovery Grant (2021–2029) NSERC Alliance Catalyst Grant (2023–2025) Collaborative projects on reproductive toxicology and genomic analyses
Dritan Agalliu is an Associate Professor of Pathology and Cell Biology (in Neurology) at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, with a focus on neurovascular biology and blood-brain barrier (BBB) mechanisms. He has developed innovative mouse models to study BBB dynamics in diseases like stroke and multiple sclerosis, and investigates Wnt/β-catenin signaling in vascular development and repair. His work bridges molecular genetics, immunology, and clinical neuroscience. Research Highlights : Discovered roles for Wnt signaling in BBB formation and repair Developed live-animal imaging models for BBB structural components Linked neuroinflammation to vascular and behavioral deficits Pioneered studies on immune cell entry in psychiatric disorder models Scientific Recognition : 2020 Lamport Award for Basic Science Research 2016 PANDAS Network Research Innovator 2006 Doctoral Distinction in Genetics 1998 Cum Laude graduate Contact: da191@cumc.columbia.edu | Agalliu Lab
Thomas D. Corso is Professor of Biochemistry and Neuroscience in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) School of Pharmacy, where he has held continuous appointments since 2001. His academic career includes prior roles as Associate Professor at LECOM (2005-2012), Visiting Professor at SUNY Buffalo (2001-2011), and Assistant Professor positions at Canisius College (1999-2005) and Lander University (1997-1999). His research program centers on neurotoxicology mechanisms in Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia, with specific focus on dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin pathways. He investigates neuronal degeneration induced by substances like alcohol, PCP, and MK-801, utilizing transgenic mouse models and viral gene transfer techniques to study FGF receptor signaling in dopamine neuron development and neurodegenerative processes. His work bridges molecular neuroscience with clinical implications for neurodegenerative disorders. Analysis of Dr. Corso's publication record reveals consistent emphasis on gene therapy applications for brain disorders and neurotoxicology mechanisms. His recent work demonstrates strong focus on viral vector delivery systems and FGF receptor modulation in Parkinson's disease models, while earlier research established foundational work on alcohol-induced neuronal damage and excitotoxicity. The publications collectively show progression from neurotoxicology mechanisms toward therapeutic interventions. Dr. Corso has actively mentored undergraduate and graduate students, with sixteen named advisees co-authoring conference presentations at major venues including Society for Neuroscience and American Chemical Society meetings. His teaching innovations include developing neurochemistry laboratories using STELLA computer modeling for endogenous neurotoxin prediction and supercritical fluid extraction methods for food safety analysis. His research collaborations span multiple institutions including SUNY Buffalo and Washington University, with laboratory work specializing in advanced neuroscience techniques such as viral vector delivery, HPLC neurotransmitter analysis, and transgenic mouse model development. Current projects focus on Parkinson's disease mechanisms and novel teaching laboratory development.
Mark Warchol is a Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and the Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology at Washington University School of Medicine, focusing on inner ear development and regeneration mechanisms. Education: BS in Physics, University of Washington, Seattle (1981) PhD in Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston (1989) His research investigates molecular regulation of sensory receptor differentiation, including GATA3 transcription factor roles, PCP/JNK signaling in hair cell orientation, and epigenetic modifications (histone acetylation/DNA methylation) in regeneration. Current projects employ siRNA knockdown, small molecule inhibitors, and chick/mouse models to study ototoxic injury responses and stereocilia regrowth pathways. Analysis of 2010-2014 publications reveals consistent emphasis on hair cell regeneration mechanisms across avian and mammalian models, with key themes including transcriptional networks (PAX/EYA/SIX), epigenetic regulators, and collaborative genomic approaches using microarrays and RNAi screening. Dr. Warchol leads a research laboratory collaborating with Washington University's Department of Genetics on large-scale gene expression studies, utilizing organ cultures, in ovo chick models, and quantitative techniques to map regenerative pathways in sensory epithelia.
Pei-Yu Chen is a Senior Research Scientist in the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine at Yale School of Medicine. She holds a PhD from the University of Maine (2009) and specializes in elucidating mechanisms underlying cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, aortic aneurysms, and vascular inflammation. Her work focuses on TGFβ signaling, endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), and the role of FGF and mTOR pathways in vascular pathologies. Recent efforts aim to develop safer drug delivery methods targeting these pathways. Research Interests: Chen's studies integrate molecular biology and translational approaches to understand how cellular signaling cascades drive vascular disease progression. Key areas include: TGFβ and FGF pathway cross-talk in endothelial dysfunction Mechanisms of smooth muscle cell phenotypic switching Role of mTOR in vascular inflammation and remodeling Preclinical models for atherosclerosis and aneurysm studies Publications Highlight: Her recent articles (2020-2023) emphasize TGFβ inhibition strategies, EndMT regulation, and mTOR pathway interventions. A 2023 study proposed novel therapeutic approaches targeting TGFβ signaling in cardiovascular diseases. Awards: No specific honors listed, though her research has been highlighted in Yale Medicine articles for innovative drug delivery concepts. Collaborations: Works closely with cardiovascular teams at Yale School of Medicine, focusing on preclinical drug development and vascular biology.
Sander Houten, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. His research focuses on understanding the biochemical and genetic mechanisms underlying inborn errors of metabolism, particularly fatty acid oxidation disorders and glutaric aciduria type 1. He holds a MSc and PhD from the University of Amsterdam. Research Interests: Dr. Houten’s work integrates biochemistry, genetics, and systems biology to study mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic disorders. Key areas include: Fatty acid oxidation disorders and their clinical manifestations Glutaric aciduria type 1 pathogenesis and therapeutic development Network medicine approaches to identify disease modifiers in monogenic disorders Awards: 2017 Science Award, Dutch Society for Clinical Chemistry 2014 SSIEM Award, Society for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism 2010 Founders' Award, Society for Inherited Metabolic Disorders Education: MSc, University of Amsterdam PhD, University of Amsterdam
Stijn P. De Langhe, Ph.D., is a Professor at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, with appointments in the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. His research is centered on lung regeneration, focusing on the molecular mechanisms of lung development and their role in diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis, COPD, asthma, and ARDS. Dr. De Langhe’s research interests lie in understanding lung stem cell niche interactions, particularly the bidirectional signaling between epithelial and mesenchymal cells. His work emphasizes how developmental pathways like FGF10 and Hippo signaling are reactivated during injury and repair, and how their dysregulation contributes to fibrotic lung diseases. He explores processes including cell quiescence, proliferation, differentiation, migration, and survival in the context of lung regeneration. The trends in his recent publications highlight a consistent focus on FGF10 signaling, epithelial-mesenchymal crosstalk, Hippo pathway regulation, and niche-mediated repair. His studies utilize mouse models and advanced techniques such as fluorescence in situ hybridization to investigate mechanisms of cell competition, bronchiolization, and alveolar epithelial regeneration in pulmonary fibrosis. Chair, 2nd Epithelial Mesenchymal Interactions in Lung Development and Fibrosis Conference, Fusion Conferences, 2022 Chair, Epithelial Mesenchymal Interactions in Lung Development and Fibrosis Conference, Fusion Conferences, 2019 Dr. De Langhe has been a principal investigator on multiple NIH-funded research projects, including ongoing studies on cell competition in pulmonary fibrosis and ARDS, epithelial stem cell Hippo signaling, and FGF10-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal interactions. He has collaborated extensively with researchers across institutions and disciplines. His lab serves as a hub for investigating lung developmental biology and its implications for regenerative medicine. He has mentored numerous trainees and contributes to major scientific conferences in his field.
Dr. Deena J. Small is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at the University of New England's Biddeford Campus. She specializes in integrating research-based approaches into biochemistry education, focusing on metabolism, signal transduction, and adipogenesis. Her laboratory courses provide undergraduates with hands-on experience using modern biochemical techniques to explore research questions. Her research investigates Jagged1/Notch and FGF/FGFR signaling pathways in fat cell metabolism, expanding to brain development and neurotransmitter production. She uses murine cell culture and zebrafish models to study environmental chemicals like PBDE and PFOA's effects on metabolism and neurological development. Dr. Small has over 15 years of experience teaching biochemical concepts, emphasizing both lecture and laboratory instruction. She mentors students in individual research projects aligned with her expertise in signaling systems and environmental impacts.
Prof. Dr. Kerstin Wilhelm-Jüngling is a Professor at the University of Bonn's Institute for Neurovascular Cell Biology. Her research focuses on vascular biology, particularly metabolic regulation in endothelial cells (ECs) and their role in health/disease. She investigates how EC metabolism influences organ function through angiocrine signaling. Key areas include organ-specific EC secretomes and metabolic control of vascular development. Affiliations: TRA Life and Health (Transdisciplinary Research Area), Institute für Neurovaskuläre Zellbiologie Research emphasizes EC heterogeneity, metabolic peculiarities of blood/lymphatic ECs, and their communication with neighboring cells. Current projects explore disrupted angiocrine signaling in disease pathogenesis.
Ariel Pani is an Assistant Professor of Biology at the University of Virginia. His research focuses on developmental biology, particularly using the C. elegans model organism to study cell migration, signaling pathways, and organogenesis. He leads the Pani Lab, which explores processes such as FGF-dependent muscle progenitor migration and Wnt signaling dynamics. Education B.A., Cornell University, College Scholar in Organismal Biology (2004) Ph.D., University of Chicago, Evolutionary Biology (2013) Postdoctoral Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2013–2019) His research interests include molecular mechanisms of cell behavior, evolutionary developmental processes, and the role of transcription factors in cellular decisions. His lab has developed novel genetic tools for studying Notch and Wnt signaling pathways in vivo. Publications highlight his work on C. elegans organogenesis, microtubule dynamics during meiosis, and the molecular characterization of nervous systems in hemichordates. He collaborates widely, with studies often involving interdisciplinary approaches to developmental biology. The Pani Lab is equipped to investigate cellular processes using advanced microscopy, CRISPR-based genome engineering, and transcriptome analysis. Ongoing projects aim to unravel how physical forces and molecular signals coordinate during development.
Dr. Kalina Hristova is a Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University, affiliated with the Whiting School of Engineering. Her research focuses on biomolecular materials, cell signaling, and drug delivery, particularly in understanding receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and membrane-active peptides. She pioneered quantitative methods to study RTK activation and developed pH-sensitive peptides for drug delivery. Hristova’s work bridges engineering and biology, addressing fundamental questions in membrane protein dynamics and cancer-related pathogenesis. Education: B.S. and M.S. in Physics, University of Sofia, Bulgaria (1987–1988) Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University (1994) Research Interests: Her lab investigates membrane protein folding, RTK signaling mechanisms, and functional selectivity of membrane receptors. Key projects include studying EphA2 dysregulation in cancer, FGF receptor activation pathways, and pH-triggered peptide-mediated drug delivery systems. Techniques developed include fluorescence-based methodologies for quantifying receptor interactions. Awards & Recognition: Biophysical Society’s Dayhoff Award Fellow, American Physical Society Fellow, American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering Lab Contributions: The Hristova Lab achieved Silver Certification in Green Lab practices. Collaborations include work with Elena Pasquale (SBP Discovery Institute) on Eph receptor modulators and development of the KAPPA code for bias quantification in signaling pathways.
Dr. Heather Lee is an Associate Professor at the University of Newcastle, affiliated with the School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy. Her research focuses on epigenetic mechanisms in cancer, particularly acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), leveraging single-cell sequencing technologies to study cellular heterogeneity and therapeutic resistance. She completed her PhD at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research and postdoctoral training at the Babraham Institute (UK), where she pioneered single-cell epigenomics techniques. Education: PhD in Biomedical Sciences from the University of New South Wales, BSc (Honours) in Biochemistry from the University of Sydney. Research Interests: Epigenetic regulation in cancer, DNA methylation dynamics, single-cell genomic approaches, and translational therapies targeting epigenetic drivers of disease. She collaborates with clinical haematologists and patient advocates to bridge laboratory findings with clinical applications. Awards: 2018 Metcalf Prize for Stem Cell Research, multiple grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council and Cancer Institute NSW. Grants/Funding: NHMRC Research Fellowships, Cure Cancer Australia grants, and industry partnerships. Her team investigates cholesterol biosynthesis pathways in AML and develops biomarkers for treatment response. Labs/Teams: Leads a research group at the Hunter Medical Research Institute, collaborating with the Australasian Leukaemia and Lymphoma Group and Calvary Mater Hospital (Newcastle).
Dr. Jeffrey M. Rosen is the C.C. Bell Distinguished Service Professor and Vice-Chair of Molecular & Cellular Biology at Baylor College of Medicine. He leads a prominent research laboratory focused on mammary gland development and breast cancer, with particular emphasis on triple negative breast cancer. His work has established him as a leading expert in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying normal mammary development and their alterations in breast cancer. Dr. Rosen's research centers on defining the mechanisms regulating normal mammary gland development to understand alterations in breast cancer. His lab specifically investigates the interplay of Wnt and Fgf family members in mammary gland development and breast cancer, translational regulation as a therapeutic vulnerability in triple negative breast cancer, and the development of unique preclinical syngeneic mouse models to study tumor response to therapies. A major focus is on understanding tumor initiating cells and the role of the immune microenvironment in treatment response. Analysis of Dr. Rosen's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on triple negative breast cancer , with particular focus on the tumor immune microenvironment , epigenetic reprogramming , and metastasis . His work increasingly integrates single-cell analysis and spatial pathology to understand tumor heterogeneity. A growing theme is leveraging preclinical models to study metastatic breast cancer and identify novel therapeutic combinations that target both tumor cells and the immune microenvironment. Dr. Rosen has mentored an extensive number of students and postdoctoral fellows throughout his career, many of whom have gone on to become independent investigators, professors, and researchers in academia and industry. His laboratory has been consistently funded through various grants, supporting research on mammary gland development, breast cancer mechanisms, and therapeutic approaches. The lab maintains strong collaborations with other researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and beyond. The Rosen Lab at Baylor College of Medicine comprises a dynamic team of postdoctoral associates, graduate students, and technical staff working collaboratively to advance understanding of breast cancer biology. The lab maintains extensive resources including detailed protocols for mammary gland research and collaborates with other laboratories through regular lab meetings and joint projects. Current research focuses on epigenetic reprogramming of triple negative breast cancer and the tumor immune microenvironment in metastatic disease.
Prof. Dr. Thomas Schlichthärle is a Tenure Track Assistant Professor at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) , holding the Professorship for AI-Guided Protein Design within the TUM School of Natural Sciences and Department of Bioscience . His research bridges machine learning, structural biology, and synthetic biology to develop synthetic proteins that modulate cellular signaling pathways. Education: B.Sc. in Molecular Medicine, University of Tübingen M.Sc. in Molecular Bioengineering, TU Dresden Research at Wyss Institute (Boston) and Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry (Munich) Research Focus: AI-assisted protein design for controlling cellular decision-making processes, with applications in biomedicine and synthetic biology. His lab develops novel protein design methods validated in cell-based systems, centered on creating synthetic proteins that can detect, modulate, or reprogram signaling pathways through oligomeric assemblies. Scientific Awards: Wübben Foundation Fellow (2025) EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowship (2021) Roland Ernst Scholarship (2014) Germany Scholarship (2013) Ferry Porsche Prize (2007) Collaborations & Grants: Collaborated with Prof. David Baker's lab at the University of Washington and participated in high-impact interdisciplinary projects involving DNA-PAINT microscopy and quantitative protein imaging. His work has been supported by competitive fellowships and institutional grants.
Deborah L. Chapman is an Associate Professor at the University of Pittsburgh, specializing in developmental biology. Her research focuses on the molecular mechanisms governing mesoderm specification and patterning during embryogenesis, particularly the roles of T-box transcription factors T and Tbx6 in somite formation and birth defects such as rib fusions and scoliosis. Dr. Chapman received her Ph.D. in 1993 from Columbia University under Debra Wolgemuth, followed by postdoctoral work with Virginia Papaioannou at the same institution. She joined her current department in 1998, where she investigates how altered T-box gene expression disrupts embryonic development using mouse models and molecular techniques like luciferase assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation. Research Themes: Mesoderm fate decisions, T-box competition, segmentation clock, Notch/Wnt signaling, human birth defect modeling. Methods: Transgenic mice, gene knockout analysis, enhancer studies, transcriptional profiling. Recent publications highlight her work on Tbx6 dosage effects, evolutionary conservation of T-box functions, and integrative signaling pathways in somitogenesis. Her lab continues to explore gene regulatory networks in embryonic patterning and their clinical implications. Contact: dlc7@pitt.edu
