Zhongjian Cheng, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Cardiovascular Sciences at Temple University's Lewis Katz School of Medicine. His research focuses on diabetes-mediated cardiovascular complications, particularly the mechanisms of vascular injury, endothelial dysfunction, and myocardial repair. He investigates extracellular vesicles/exosomes from diabetic cells and their modification via genetic, epigenetic, and metabolite approaches to enhance regenerative properties. Education: PhD from University of Helsinki; Postdoctoral fellowship at University of Calgary Affiliation: Member of the Aging + Cardiovascular Discovery Center Dr. Cheng's work spans diabetic cardiovascular complications , extracellular vesicle biology , epigenetic modifications , and non-coding RNA (circular RNA, miRNA). His studies use animal models to explore vascular relaxation impairments , myocardial infarction , and heart failure mechanisms. His recent publications highlight exosome-based therapeutics for heart failure, epigenetic sex differences in cardiac repair, and circRNA/miRNA roles in macrophage and endothelial cell function. Key awards include multiple American Heart Association grants .
Professor Rainer Viktor Haberberger is Head of the Department of Anatomy & Histology and Head of the Pain & Pulmonary Neurobiology Laboratory at Flinders University's College of Medicine and Public Health. He holds multiple leadership roles including Topic Coordinator for years 1 and 2 of the Medical Course, and since 2019 has served as Co-Director of the Orama Institute for Mental Health, Wellbeing and Neuroscience. His academic journey began with Human Biology studies at Philipps-University in Marburg, Germany, followed by senior scientist and lecturer positions at Justus-Liebig University Giessen before joining Flinders University in 2005. Professor Haberberger's research focuses on peripheral pain mechanisms and pulmonary neurobiology , with particular emphasis on the sphingosine kinase/sphingosine 1-phosphate system in nociception and airway function, exosome and microRNA regulation in sensory neurons, and development of bio-nanochip interfaces for pain measurement. His work bridges basic neuroscience with clinical applications in chronic pain conditions and respiratory diseases. His recent publications demonstrate a strong trajectory in neuroanatomical research, particularly in dorsal root ganglion studies, microfluidic pain sensors, and inflammatory mechanisms in COPD. The research spans from fundamental molecular investigations to translational applications, with increasing focus on advanced technologies for pain measurement and diagnosis. Mary Overton Neuroscience Fellowship (2005-2009) Collaborative Research Grant, International Society for the Study of Pain (2006, 2010) Decima Strachan and Claire Lilia Wooton Estates Spinal Cord Research Award (2008) Australian Lung Foundation Ludwig Engel Grant-in-Aid (2011) Bren Gannon Award for Innovation in Teaching (2012) John Boyd Craig Research Award (2017) Inaugural Chair Basic Pain Research SIG, Australian Pain Society (2017) Professor Haberberger has been actively involved in medical education as Head of Anatomy, overseeing curriculum development and teaching for medical students. His Pain & Pulmonary Neurobiology Lab maintains strong collaborative networks with multiple research groups, particularly in pain research and pulmonary neuroscience. He has completed four associate supervisions in neuroscience and continues to mentor students in the field of peripheral sensory neuroscience.
Prof. Semra Demokan is a faculty member at Istanbul University, Institute of Oncology, Department of Basic Oncology. She holds a Professor rank and has been active since 2017. Her academic journey includes postdoctoral research at Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, and degrees from Bogazici University and Istanbul University. Doctorate: Oncological Biology and Immunology, Istanbul University Postgraduate: Oncological Biology and Immunology, Istanbul University Undergraduate: Molecular Biology and Genetics, Bogazici University Research interests span Oncology , Molecular Biology of Cancer , Epigenetics , Genetics , and Clinical Medicine . She focuses on DNA methylation , gene expression profiling , and epigenetic biomarkers in head and neck/oral cancers. Her 15 most recent publications (2023-2010) cover epigenetic mechanisms in cancer, gene expression analysis , DNA repair pathways , and biomarker validation . Key subtopics include head and neck squamous cell carcinoma , oral cancer methylomics , microRNA interactions , and tumor suppressor gene regulation . Advisory roles include supervising 17 postgraduate theses (2024-2017) on topics like SETD2 expression in parotid tumors , TXNIP gene in oral cancer , and mitochondrial biogenesis in oral lesions . She participates in institutional management as Head of Department (2013-present) and coordinates Erasmus programs.
Neil G Harris is a Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Medicine . His research focuses on traumatic brain injury (TBI) , neuroimaging , and rehabilitation strategies , with particular emphasis on biomarker development , functional connectivity , and metabolic interventions . Current NIH-funded projects: R01NS116383 (Co-PI), UH3NS106945 (PI), UH3NS106945 (PI) Key collaborations: Richard Staba (UCLA), Fernando Gomez-Pinilla (UCLA), Paul Vesna (UCLA) Research interests span neurotrauma , neuroplasticity , and advanced neuroimaging techniques . His work integrates multicenter preclinical studies through consortia like TOP-NT and EpiBioS4Rx . Recent publications highlight MRI harmonization , BDNF mimetics , and epileptogenesis biomarkers . Grants include continuous NIH support since 2007, with leadership roles in U01NS082320 and R01NS055910 . He contributes to neurotrauma common data elements and preclinical standardization .
Professor Andreu Palou Oliver is a distinguished academic at the University of the Balearic Islands (UIB), where he has served as Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology since 1988. He directs the Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Nutrition and Biotechnology (LBNB) at UIB, a position he has held since 1995, and was Principal Investigator of the Nutrigenomics, Biomarkers and Risk Assessment (NuBE) group until 2021. Throughout his career, he has held numerous leadership positions at UIB including Secretary of the Faculty of Sciences, Director of multiple departments, Dean of the Faculty of Sciences, and Vice-Rector for both Teaching Staff and Planning and Research. Professor Palou's research spans the intersecting fields of Nutrition and Molecular Biology, with particular focus on the role of leptin in breast milk as a hormone and nutrient during lactation. His groundbreaking work has demonstrated that leptin present in breast milk but not in formula substitutes protects against obesity development and associated complications. This discovery has led to significant scientific recognition, patents, and the establishment of Alimentómica SL, the first technology-based company of the UIB. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on nutritional biomarkers, metabolic programming, and personalized nutrition approaches. His work frequently examines the molecular mechanisms underlying obesity, with particular attention to early-life nutritional interventions and their long-term health consequences. His research methodology combines molecular biology techniques with nutritional science to identify biomarkers and understand the genetic and epigenetic factors influencing metabolic health. Professor Palou's scientific achievements have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards including the International Hippocrates Award for Medical Research on Human Nutrition (2007), the Scientific/Professional Career Award from SEEDO (2011), the VII National Award for Food and Health from the University of Navarra (2011), the XXIII DuPont Science Prize (2013), and the Danone Institute Foundation Scientific Career Award (2019). As an educator and mentor, Professor Palou has directed 39 doctoral theses and has been Principal Investigator for approximately 70 R&D projects in competitive calls from public and private entities, in addition to 58 contracts with companies. His leadership extends to European research consortia, where he coordinated the BIOCLAIMS project funded by the EU's 7th Framework Programme with 6 million euros (2010-2015), and participated in other significant projects including I.FAMILY, DIABAT, and PREVENTOMICS. Professor Palou leads the Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Nutrition and Biotechnology (LBNB), which has been instrumental in translating basic science discoveries into practical applications. His research group has made significant contributions to understanding the molecular basis of nutrition, with particular emphasis on obesity prevention mechanisms, biomarker discovery, and the development of personalized nutrition strategies that can be implemented through digital health tools and dietary interventions.
Rajeev S. Ramchandran, M.D., M.B.A. is an Associate Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, specializing in Retina & Vitreous Services at the Flaum Eye Institute. He is a board-certified ophthalmologist with extensive clinical experience in retinal surgeries, laser therapy, intravitreal injections, and medical retina care. His research interests span multiple domains including telemedicine applications in ophthalmology, diabetic retinopathy screening protocols, retinal imaging technology, health policy and economics, and international ophthalmology. Dr. Ramchandran has developed significant expertise in implementing teleophthalmology programs to improve diabetic retinopathy surveillance in primary care settings and urban low-income populations. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on retinal imaging technology development, teleophthalmology program evaluation, and the intersection of eye care with broader health systems. His work demonstrates consistent contributions to improving access to eye care in rural communities and underserved populations through innovative telemedicine solutions. John M. Brophy Award (2013) Operations Faculty Award (2013) Beta Sigma Gamma Honor Society member (2013) Distinction in Research during medical school (2003) Summa Cum Laude graduate from University of Pennsylvania (1998) Phi Beta Kappa member (1998) Dr. Ramchandran actively contributes to clinical education and has participated in numerous research collaborations across disciplines including oncology, pulmonology, and neuroscience. His laboratory work has included significant contributions to understanding vascular biology, ciliogenesis mechanisms, and molecular pathways in retinal disease. He maintains an active clinical practice serving patients in the Rochester area, Finger Lakes Region, and Western New York.
Gül Akdoğan is a Professor in the Department of Basic Medical Sciences at Izmir University of Economics School of Medicine. She holds a BS and MSc in Biochemistry from Geneva University (Switzerland) and a PhD from Istanbul University (1980). She has held significant leadership roles including Director of Dokuz Eylül University's Graduate School of Health Sciences (2000-2010), founder and director of Dokuz Eylül Medical School's Central Research Laboratory (2002-2016), and Director of IEU Graduate School of Health Sciences (2016-2019). She served on ORPHEUS Executive Committee (2010-2016) and has been Co-Chair of ORPHEUS Labeling Committee since 2017. BS/MSc: Geneva University PhD: Istanbul University (1980) Faculty roles: Istanbul University, Dokuz Eylül University, Izmir University of Economics Research leadership: ECFMG Fellowship (1996), WVU Visiting Professor (1996, 2001) Her research focuses on extracellular matrix (ECM) biology and its communication with fibroblasts and endothelial cells , particularly in fibrotic diseases like scleroderma and aging skin. With over 95 publications in SCI/extended SCI/Index Medicus journals, she has explored antioxidant interventions (e.g., melatonin, EGCG, alpha-lipoic acid) and signaling pathways (TGF-β, JNK/AP-1, p38 MAPK) in fibrosis and oxidative stress. She has organized over 60 international workshops through FEBS and IUBMB, served on editorial boards of BAMBED and Bioscience Education , and was Chair of FEBS Education Committee (2009-2019). Her scientific contributions include the FEBS Diplome d'Honneur (2018) and leadership in European doctoral education initiatives through EUA Doctoral Council and ORPHEUS.
Gizem Ayna Duran is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Izmir University of Economics. With a background in bioengineering and medical genetics, she specializes in autophagy, cell death mechanisms, and bioinformatics-driven cancer research. B.Sc., Bioengineering, Ege University (2000-2004) M.Sc., Medical Biology and Genetics, Dokuz Eylul University (2004-2006) Ph.D., Biomedicine, University of Debrecen (2007-2012) Postdoctoral Research, Neuroscience, Dokuz Eylul University (2012-2014) Her research bridges autophagy and cancer immunology , focusing on cell death-based immune responses, gene expression profiling, and survival analysis in cancer patients. She employs bioinformatics to identify differentially expressed genes and pathways across cancers, particularly in multiple myeloma , colon cancer , and leukemia . Recent publications highlight her work in drug repurposing for breast and gynecological cancers, deciphering circulating tumor cell biomarkers in multiple myeloma, and analyzing inflammatory gene signatures impacting survival in leukemia and colon cancer. Her studies often integrate pan-cancer analyses , in silico screening , and hub gene identification .
Prof. SEVİLHAN ARTAN is a Professor at the Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, where she has held academic positions since 1985. She currently serves as Head of Department and Director of GENTAM research center. Her leadership includes roles in TÜBİTAK health sciences committees (2017-2021). Education highlights: PhD in Medical Genetics (Eskişehir Osmangazi University, 1992) MSc in Medical Genetics (Eskişehir Osmangazi University, 1988) BSc in Biology (Middle East Technical University, 1983) Her research focuses on medical genetics with emphasis on: Cancer genomics (glioblastoma, leukemia, CRC) Neurogenetics (dementia, neurodevelopmental disorders) Prenatal/reproductive genetics (recurrent pregnancy loss, infertility) Cytogenetic diagnostics (array CGH, FISH) She employs molecular techniques to study genomic variations in Turkish populations. Recent publications (15 most recent) demonstrate: Strong focus on neurogenetic disorders (frontotemporal dementia, lissencephaly) Oncogenetics research in leukemia/CRC biomarker discovery Methodological emphasis on FISH, array CGH, and expression profiling Collaborations across neurology, oncology, and cardiology disciplines She has supervised 33+ graduate theses (PhD/MSc) spanning: Cancer genetics (glioblastoma, bladder cancer) Neurodegenerative diseases Prenatal diagnostics Infertility genetics and participated in 26 research projects. Leads the GENTAM laboratory focusing on molecular diagnostics.
Divya Chhabra, M.B.B.S., M.M.Sc. is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics and Pulmonology at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Her research spans epigenetics, fetal lung development, and environmental influences on pediatric respiratory conditions. Education: MS in Clinical Informatics from Harvard Medical School (2013), MBBS from Dayanand Medical College & Hospital, India (2004) Her work focuses on: Epigenetic mechanisms in chronic lung disease of prematurity Impact of prenatal exposures (nicotine, air pollution) on respiratory outcomes Genomic biomarkers in asthma and COPD Vitamin D's role in pregnancy and fetal development Key publication trends include: Transcriptomic and epigenetic studies of fetal/neonatal lung biology Network-based analyses of gene-environment interactions Application of computational approaches to pediatric health data Scientific awards: ATS Assembly on Pediatrics Scientific Abstract Award (2018) ATS Abstract Scholarship (2016) Abstract Scholarship (2014) Annual Resident Research Award (2011)
Allison L. Abbott is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Marquette University. Her research focuses on the functional analysis of microRNA genes during C. elegans development, with implications for understanding gene regulation in human diseases. Education: B.S., 1995, College of William and Mary Ph.D., 2000, Tufts University Post-doctoral Fellow (2000-2001, Tufts University; 2001-2006, Dartmouth Medical School) Research interests: Dr. Abbott investigates microRNA regulation in three key areas: (1) identifying pathways and targets regulated by microRNAs, (2) analyzing microRNA roles in rhythmic behaviors via calcium signaling, and (3) studying the lin-4 family member mir-237 in developmental timing transitions. Scientific awards: Way Klingler Young Scholars Award (2010) Advising: Dr. Abbott currently advises Ph.D. student Rita Okeke and has mentored former Ph.D. students Katie Maniates (2020) and Lu Lu (2022).
Stephan Köstlbacher, PhD, is an active academic researcher in microbial evolution, with significant contributions to understanding archaeal systems and eukaryotic origins. His affiliations span multiple institutions through external collaborations, including work with the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, University of Texas, and Wageningen University & Research. Research interests include: Evolutionary biology of Asgard archaea CRISPR-Cas systems and RNA interference Metagenomics of extreme environments Eukaryotic cell origin theories Recent publications focus on: Describing novel archaeal species (Asgardarchaeum abyssi) Investigating RNA-guided silencing in archaea Exploring CRISPR-Cas cascades in proteolytic cleavages Analyzing viral modulation of methane metabolism Mapping eukaryotic evolution trajectories As co-promotor for Panagiotou K.'s PhD project on phylogenomic exploration of the Tree of Life, he contributes to next-generation scientific training. Research metrics show strong citation impact (up to 18 citations) and broad academic engagement (over 120 Mendeley readers).
Gordon P. Meares is an Associate Professor at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute within the School of Medicine at West Virginia University. His research focuses on neuroimmunology, specifically the cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating inflammation in the central nervous system (CNS) and its role in neurological diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis. Education: PhD, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 2007 BS, Auburn University, 2001 Dr. Meares' laboratory investigates inflammatory responses in glial cells (astrocytes and microglia) to metabolic stress and injury, and their impact on other CNS cell types. His primary research areas include AMPK/LKB1 signaling in neuroinflammation for Multiple Sclerosis, PERK-dependent inflammatory pathways in ER stress, and transcriptome-wide mapping of neuroinflammatory responses using RNA-seq and bioinformatics. His work bridges molecular mechanisms with therapeutic applications for neurodegenerative conditions. Analysis of Dr. Meares' 12 publications (2011-2017) reveals a dominant focus on ER stress-induced neuroinflammation, particularly the PERK-JAK-STAT and AMPK regulatory pathways. His research consistently links molecular signaling in glial cells to disease mechanisms in Multiple Sclerosis and neurodegeneration, with strong emphasis on translational potential through conditional knockout models and primary cell cultures. Dr. Meares currently mentors graduate students in his laboratory and is accepting new trainees. His research is funded by a National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) grant investigating AMPK/LKB1 signaling in EAE models of MS. He is an active member of the Center for Neuroscience and the Center for Basic and Translational Stroke Research at West Virginia University. His laboratory employs advanced techniques including conditional knockout mice, primary glial cultures, in vivo cell-specific RNA labeling, and next-generation sequencing to dissect neuroinflammatory mechanisms.
Malin Engfeldt serves as an Associate Professor at Lund University within the Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. As an occupational hygienist and active researcher since 2019, she specializes in characterizing airborne workplace exposures while maintaining expertise in work-related skin diseases developed through her 2007 doctoral thesis in experimental dermatology on isocyanate contact allergy. Her research spans occupational toxicology and dermatology with emphases on hexavalent chromium exposure pathways, isocyanate sensitization mechanisms, and formaldehyde/Methylisothiazolinone allergy triggers. She employs biomonitoring, molecular toxicology, and epidemiological methods to investigate exposure-disease relationships, contributing significantly to UN Sustainable Development Goals through occupational health advancements. Recent publications (2024-2025) reveal a concentrated focus on hexavalent chromium biomonitoring through the SafeChrom project, demonstrating genotoxic effects and epigenetic alterations in exposed workers. Her work also bridges occupational exposures with broader public health concerns, notably through population-based studies examining tattoo associations with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Engfeldt actively supervises doctoral candidates including Lejding, T. (chromate eczema prevention), Woo-Sampson, P. (oral irritant-skin sensitivity connections), and Young, E. (hairdye allergy mechanisms). She currently leads or assists five research projects, most prominently the SafeChrom initiative on chromium toxicity and the SAM-Krom biomonitoring study in Danish workplaces. As a core member of the SafeChrom Project Team, she collaborates internationally with Danish institutions and Lund University researchers to translate molecular findings into practical workplace safety protocols, with ongoing field studies in industrial chromium exposure settings.
Nina Milutin is a professional researcher at the Ruđer Bošković Institute, working within the Division of Molecular Medicine under the Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Bacteriology. She holds a PhD in Natural Sciences (Biology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology) from the University of Zagreb (2012) and a BSc in Biology (Molecular Biology) from the University of Zagreb (1999). Specializes in epigenetic mechanisms, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) research, and molecular diagnostics of cervical/oral cancers Key research focus: DNA methylation profiles in HPV-associated cancers and oral mucosal lesions Publications & Research Trends: Her work bridges molecular virology, epigenetics, and clinical oncology, with a strong emphasis on HPV's role in cervical and head/neck cancers. Recent studies explore mass cytometry for biomarker discovery, sex hormone receptor interactions, and post-vaccination HPV surveillance. Methodological Expertise: Includes PCR, RFLP, DNA sequencing, line probe assays, and methylation profiling via Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip.
