Han Li is a permanent researcher and structural leader at the Institut Pasteur in Paris, affiliated with the team Membrane, Cytosquelette et Division Cellulaire under the Department of Cell Biology and Infection. Han Li leads research projects focused on cellular plasticity in aging and cancer, exploring mechanisms of cellular reprogramming, senescence, and regeneration. Research Interests: Cellular reprogramming and stem cell biology Mechanisms of aging and cellular senescence Aberrant plasticity in cancer development In vivo models of tissue regeneration Gene regulation in pluripotency (e.g., Sox2) The recent publications highlight work in in vivo reprogramming, particularly in skeletal muscle, using mouse models to study how injury-induced senescence can be leveraged for regenerative purposes. The research bridges fundamental cell biology with implications for regenerative medicine and oncology. Scientific Contributions: Pioneering studies on injury-induced senescence enabling reprogramming Development of assays for detecting senescence during reprogramming Exploration of p27 and Sox2 in dysplastic cell states Han Li supervises PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, contributing to training the next generation of scientists in cell and developmental biology. The work is supported by institutional funding and collaborative initiatives at Institut Pasteur, including LabEx Revive in regenerative biology. Laboratory and Team: The research is conducted within a dynamic team studying cell division, cytoskeleton, and cellular identity, with access to advanced core facilities including organ-on-chip and animal models.
Thomas Bourgeron is a Professor and head of the Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions Unit at the Institut Pasteur in Paris, France. His research integrates psychiatry, neuroscience, and genetics to investigate the causes of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and improve clinical management. He leads a multidisciplinary team and numerous international research initiatives. Institut Pasteur, Paris Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions Unit Principal Investigator, EU-AIMS, PARIS Study, Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Project His research focuses on identifying genetic mutations linked to ASD, particularly in synaptic genes (NLGN, SHANK, CNTN) and the melatonin pathway affecting sleep. His team employs high-throughput genomics, brain imaging (MRI, EEG), mouse models, and human iPSCs to study functional impacts and develop therapeutic strategies. He emphasizes data sharing and open science through tools like GeneTrek and GRAVITY. His recent publications reveal genetic heterogeneity in autism, brain connectivity patterns, and phenotypic stratification using electrophysiology and behavioral analysis. His work bridges molecular mechanisms with clinical manifestations, aiming to identify common pathways for targeted interventions. Phenotypic effects of genetic variants in autism Genetic correlates of phenotypic heterogeneity Stratification of autistic phenotypes using EEG Functional impact of SHANK3 mutations Proteomic analysis of the pineal gland in autism Thomas Bourgeron mentors numerous PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and engineers. He collaborates with leading institutions and clinicians, including Professor Christopher Gillberg at the University of Gothenburg. His lab is actively recruiting in human genetics and neuroimaging. He contributes to public education through lectures, open-access tools, and outreach initiatives like the CléPsy platform and educational videos for families of autistic children.
Glenda Comai is a Permanent Researcher (CRCN CNRS) at the Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, CNRS UMR 3738, Institut Pasteur, Paris, where she has worked since 2016 in Prof. Shahragim Tajbakhsh's laboratory. She serves on the Advisory Board of the French Society of Developmental Biology (SFBD) since 2019 and recently obtained her HDR (Habilitation à diriger des Recherches) from Université Paris Saclay in 2024. Her research focuses on understanding the mechanisms underlying tissue patterning during development, with special emphasis on craniofacial muscles. Using 3D-imaging, mouse genetics, and single cell/single nuclear omics approaches, she investigates how heterogeneity at the level of stem cells and myofibers is established and how this impacts muscular genetic disorders. Her work reveals significant differences between extraocular muscle stem cells and those from limb muscles, particularly in their regenerative capacity and molecular signatures. Analysis of her recent publications shows a strong trend toward understanding the transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of muscle stem cell identity, particularly how anatomical location influences stem cell behavior. Her research spans developmental biology, stem cell biology, and muscle physiology, with particular emphasis on craniofacial development and muscle regeneration mechanisms. AFM PRC Grant (2024-2026) ANR JCJC Grant (2021-2024) AFM Trampolin Grant (2020-2021) As Principal Investigator, Dr. Comai leads two major research projects: AFM-Trampolin: Cellular and genetic basis for robustness of cranial myogenic populations (ENCRYPT) and ANR-JCJC: Mechanisms defining functional heterogeneity of anatomically distinct myogenic populations (MUSE). Her laboratory employs advanced techniques including bioimage analysis, confocal microscopy, stem cell culture, and various molecular biology methods to investigate muscle development and regeneration.
Thomas Boudier is an Associate Professor at Centrale Méditerranée with additional affiliation as Professor Associate at Sorbonne University's Institute of Biology Paris-Seine (IBPS). His research focuses on bioimage informatics, bridging computer science and biological imaging to develop advanced tools for analyzing complex biological structures. His educational background includes: PhD in Bioimage Informatics from Sorbonne University (1994-1997) Master's in Computer Vision from Nice Sophia Antipolis University (1992-1993) Undergraduate studies in Mathematics from Paris Diderot University (1990-1992) Dr. Boudier's research spans the intersection of computer science and biological imaging, with particular expertise in 3D image analysis and processing. His work has significantly contributed to developing computational methods for analyzing complex biological structures across multiple scales. He has pioneered approaches for electron microscopy image segmentation, 3D reconstruction of cellular structures, and quantitative analysis of tissue organization. His research has important applications in neuroscience, cancer biology, and regenerative medicine, where precise quantification of cellular and subcellular structures is critical. His extensive publication record demonstrates consistent innovation in bioimage analysis, with recent work focusing on deep learning applications for electron microscopy, 3D analysis of neuronal structures, and computational modeling of cardiac cells. His development of specialized software tools like TAPAS, Spot Spine, and CardioVinci has provided the research community with valuable resources for automated image analysis. Throughout his career, Dr. Boudier has maintained strong collaborations across international institutions, including work at Academia Sinica in Taiwan and The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research in Australia. His research laboratory is affiliated with INRIA - National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology, where he contributes to advancing computational methods for biological imaging.
Anne Kavounoudias is a Professor at Aix-Marseille University, where she serves as Director of the Body & Multisensoriality team within the NeuroMarseille Institute. She also holds the position of Director of EUR Neuroschool, a University Research School that brings together L3, Master and PhD programs in Neurosciences from Aix-Marseille University. Since 2020, she has served as Deputy Director of the NeuroMarseille Institute and previously served as a member of CNU section 69 (2015-2022) and the Board of the Doctoral School of Life and Health Sciences (2019-2021). Dr. Kavounoudias' research focuses on the mechanisms and neural bases underlying multisensory integration in the representation and control of human body movement. Her work sits at the interface of neurophysiology and experimental psychology, examining how muscular proprioceptive, tactile, and visual sensitivities interact to ensure movement perception and control. She conducts studies with healthy adults, elderly subjects to understand adaptive processes during non-pathological aging, and individuals who are transiently deafferented (through immobilization) or permanently (amputees, deafferented patients). Her research methodology incorporates functional brain imaging (fMRI), structural imaging (DWI), MR-spectroscopy of the brain and spinal cord, psychophysical approaches, electromyography, and multisensory stimulations including tendon vibration, visual vection, and tactile vection. Current projects include the ANR ASTRID 'PhantomPain' Project (2021-2025) on phantom pain in amputees, an AMIDEX Excellence Incubator Project (2020-2021) on new therapies for phantom pain, and previous projects like 'DISREMO' (2017-2019) and the ANR JCJC 'MULTISENSE' project (2012-2016). Analysis of Dr. Kavounoudias' recent publications reveals a consistent evolution in her research focus, with increasingly sophisticated neuroimaging approaches to study multisensory integration. Her work demonstrates growing attention to age-related changes in sensory processing and expanding applications to rehabilitation contexts, particularly for amputees and individuals with movement disorders. The publications show a progression from basic research on sensory integration mechanisms to more translational work with clinical applications. Her research has been supported by multiple competitive grants including: ANR ASTRID 'PhantomPain' Project (2021-2025) - Phantom pain in amputees: understanding its central and peripheral origins AMIDEX Excellence Incubator Project (2020-2021) - New therapy for phantom pain after amputation 'DISREMO' Project (2017-2019) - Exploration of audio-haptic interactions in texture perception ANR JCJC 'MULTISENSE' Project (2012-2016) - Multisensory integration and kinesthetic perception As Director of EUR Neuroschool, Dr. Kavounoudias oversees graduate education in neuroscience at Aix-Marseille University, coordinating L3, Master and PhD programs. She previously served as Co-director of the ICN PhD Program and Co-manager of the Brain Master Program, both initiatives aimed at internationalizing neuroscience education at AMU. Dr. Kavounoudias leads the Body & Multisensoriality research team at the NeuroMarseille Institute, where her group investigates the neural mechanisms of body representation and movement control. Her laboratory employs a multidisciplinary approach combining neuroimaging, psychophysics, and electrophysiological techniques to study sensory integration in both healthy and clinical populations, with particular focus on developing rehabilitation approaches for movement disorders.
Nicolas Babault is a Professor at the University of Burgundy, Faculty of Sports Science, where he serves as Head of the first year of the Master's program in Sports Training and Optimization of Performance (EOPS). He co-directs the Performance Expertise Center (CEP) technological platform and serves as associate editor for Frontiers in Physiology, Brazilian Journal of Physical Therapy, and Sports MDPI. His research is conducted within the Cognition, Action, and Sensorimotor Plasticity (CAPS) laboratory. Dr. Babault earned his Doctorate from the University of Burgundy in 2002 and completed his Habilitation to Direct Research in 2014. His educational background has positioned him as a leading researcher in sports physiology and biomechanics. His primary research interests focus on neuromuscular physiology related to exercise, with specific emphasis on the acute effects of stretching on the neuromuscular system, electrostimulation applications for training and rehabilitation, and performance criteria determination across various sports including rugby, football, and cycling. His work explores different stretching modalities (static, dynamic, neurodynamic), electrostimulation protocols, and combined training methods (strength/endurance). Through the CEP platform, he also conducts industry collaborations on topics including nutritional supplements, footwear, exoskeletons, smart textiles, and augmented reality. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on soccer performance analytics, stretching protocols, and neuromuscular adaptations. His work increasingly incorporates complexity theory and multifractal analysis for understanding sports performance, while maintaining strong connections between laboratory research and practical applications in elite sports settings. Dr. Babault actively collaborates internationally with researchers from the University of Brasilia (Brazil), Edith Cowan University (Australia), and St Mary's University (UK), demonstrating the global recognition of his research contributions. He serves on the National University Council (74th section) and the Ethics Committee for Sports Science Research (CERSTAPS), reflecting his leadership role in shaping academic and ethical standards in his field.
Yaakoubi Nourdin is a Researcher at the Institute of Acoustics within Le Mans University. His work bridges acoustic engineering and electrochemical sensor development , with a focus on biomedical and environmental applications. Current research themes include Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) sensors , molecular imprinting , and IoT-integrated monitoring systems . Key collaborations span institutions in France, Tunisia, and beyond, involving studies on water infrastructure diagnostics and flexible bioelectronics . His recent publications highlight trends in nanomaterial-enhanced sensors and acoustic-environmental interactions . Notable projects include wearable thermography for breast cancer screening and ultra-sensitive detection of heavy metals using doped polymers. The Institute of Acoustics at Le Mans University serves as his primary research hub, aligning with transversal axes like Non-linear Acoustics and Metamaterials . While no explicit awards or student advisement records are provided in available texts, his scientific production spans patent development (e.g., US10477302B2 acoustic absorber) and cross-disciplinary projects in biomedical engineering and urban infrastructure monitoring .
Sylvie Friant is a Senior Researcher (DR2) at the CNRS , leading the "Membrane Trafficking and Lipid Signaling" team at the University of Strasbourg's Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology since 2006. Her research explores the intersection of cell biology , lipid signaling , and human disease modeling using yeast ( Saccharomyces cerevisiae ) as a eukaryotic model organism. Education 2006: Habilitation to Direct Research (HDR), University of Strasbourg 1997: PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology, University Louis Pasteur 1994: Master in Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Strasbourg 1992: Bachelor in Biochemistry, University of Strasbourg Her work focuses on membrane trafficking , phosphoinositide signaling , and yeast-based human disease models , particularly for ciliopathies and neuromuscular disorders . Recent studies investigate PYROXD1 mutations in limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, VPS15/PIK3R4's role in retinitis pigmentosa, and MTMR2/MTM1 interactions in myopathies. Scientific contributions include CNRS Bronze Medal (2005) CNRS ATIP Starting Grant (2005) AcademiaNet nominee (2016) She has directed multiple PhD projects (e.g., Matthieu Raess) and secured grants from AFM-Téléthon, IdEx, and national institutions. Her team moved to the Strasbourg Biomedical Research Center (CRBS) in 2025.
Piera Smeriglio is a tenured INSERM Researcher at the Institute of Myology, Sorbonne University, Paris, holding an HDR (Habilitation à Diriger des Recherches) qualification. She leads an HCERES-accredited research team focused on motor neuron diseases and skeletal muscle pathophysiology since 2022, with strong institutional ties to Sorbonne University. Her research integrates epigenetic regulation, stem cell biology, and tissue engineering to investigate skeletal muscle disorders. Using cutting-edge multi-omics approaches, she identifies novel therapeutic targets for motor neuron diseases while maintaining direct translational pathways to clinical applications through patient-centered collaborations. Her work bridges fundamental epigenetic mechanisms with practical regenerative medicine solutions. Analysis of her publications reveals consistent exploration of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) dynamics in disease pathogenesis, with significant contributions to understanding epigenetic drivers in osteoarthritis and cartilage engineering. Her research trajectory demonstrates increasing specialization in epigenetic therapeutics for musculoskeletal disorders since 2016. Her scientific recognition includes: Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA) 2020 Dr. Smeriglio secures competitive funding through European frameworks including the MSCA fellowship and participates in major international initiatives. She actively mentors researchers within her HCERES-accredited team and contributes to global rare disease research through the Sorbonne/Fiocruz program (Brazil) and European Erdera consortium. She directs her research unit at the Institute of Myology where her team investigates epigenetic mechanisms in motor neuron diseases using multi-omics platforms, with dedicated facilities for stem cell culture and tissue engineering relevant to skeletal muscle repair.
Yanick Crow is the Head of the Neurogenetics and Neuroinflammation research team, focusing on understanding genetic and immunological mechanisms underlying neuroinflammatory disorders. His work has centered on Aicardi-Goutières syndrome (AGS) and type I interferonopathies, linking monogenic mutations to autoinflammatory pathways. The team investigates nucleic acid-driven inflammation, interferon signaling defects, and potential therapies targeting these mechanisms. Research interests include the interplay between genetic mutations, interferonopathies, and autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus. Collaborations with clinicians and immunologists allow translational studies connecting basic science to clinical applications, with a focus on developing novel treatments for rare and complex immune disorders. Key contributions involve identifying genetic drivers of autoimmunity and proposing JAK inhibitors as therapeutic candidates in interferonopathies. Team members include clinicians (PU-PH), postdoctoral researchers, and PhD students, reflecting multidisciplinary expertise. Publications highlight advancements in understanding cGAS-STING pathway dysregulation, COPA mutations, and mitochondrial nucleic acid roles in pathogenic inflammation. Ongoing work explores molecular mechanisms and clinical trials for interventions in neuroimmunological conditions.
Kiyoka Kinugawa Bourron is a University Professor - Hospital Practitioner (PU-PH) at Sorbonne University, specializing in neurogeriatrics. She leads the CHRONOS-SARC-REAL project aimed at developing a portable diagnostic tool for sarcopenia using HD-sEMG technology. She heads the functional explorations unit at Charles-Foix Hospital, focusing on neurogeriatric consultations and sleep disorder evaluations. Education & Background: Trained in neurology at Sorbonne University, she specialized in geriatrics, driven by an interest in neurodegenerative diseases affecting the elderly. Her work emphasizes a holistic approach to aging-related health challenges. Research Focus: Her research addresses sarcopenia's impact on elderly independence and quality of life. Key projects include: Development of an integrated diagnostic tool for sarcopenia using high-definition surface electromyography (HD-sEMG). Collaboration with the Université Technologique de Compiègne to analyze muscle signatures and correlate with clinical metrics. Multi-center study involving 15 AP-HP geriatric departments in Île-de-France to validate technology, supported by AXA Assurances VIE Mutuelle. Challenges & Goals: Overcoming multi-center coordination, patient inclusion rates, and data quality through trained clinical staff. Aims to enable early, non-invasive sarcopenia diagnosis and personalized monitoring for therapies. Impact & Collaboration: The project unifies geriatric departments, fosters student involvement (doctoral/Master's), and advances clinical research in aging. AXA's support ensures both financial backing and validation of the project's societal importance.
Nicolas BARBEZIER is an Associate Professor in Molecular and Cellular Biology affiliated with the EGEAL research unit. His work focuses on understanding the impacts of dietary components and environmental contaminants on intestinal health, microbiota dynamics, and chronic disease mechanisms. He holds a PhD from the University of Perpignan Via Domitia and specializes in translational research bridging basic biology, nutrition science, and veterinary medicine. Research interests include the effects of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), plant-derived tannins, and nutritional interventions on gut integrity, immune responses, and microbiome composition. His studies often utilize in vitro models of intestinal barriers and animal husbandry systems to evaluate novel nutritional solutions for improving health outcomes in both humans and livestock. Key contributions span over 20 peer-reviewed articles since 2006, with recent work emphasizing early-life exposure to contaminants, microbiota modulation in weaned piglets, and the mechanistic basis of muscular dystrophies linked to proteostasis defects. His interdisciplinary approach integrates molecular biology techniques, advanced analytical chemistry, and systems biology to address multifaceted health challenges. Current affiliations include collaborative research within the EGEAL unit, focusing on developing biomimetic in vitro systems and exploring natural compounds for biomedical and agricultural applications.
Dijana Petrovska is a Lecturer at Telecom SudParis, part of the Université Paris-Saclay. Her work focuses on biometric systems, medical diagnostics, and privacy-preserving technologies. She has contributed to projects like the EMPATHIC Virtual Coach, aimed at improving elderly health through AI-driven virtual assistants. Her research interests include facial recognition, speech processing, and cryptographic key regeneration using biometrics. Notably, she has pioneered methodologies for early-stage Parkinson's disease detection via facial action units and voice analysis. She also explores secure authentication systems combining biometrics with cryptography, emphasizing privacy preservation. Publications span over two decades, with recent work emphasizing cross-disciplinary applications of AI in healthcare and security. While no specific academic awards are listed, her impactful contributions to the field of biometric and medical AI are evident through her prolific publication record and active project leadership. Her involvement in collaborative projects like SpeechXRays and EMPATHIC demonstrates a commitment to bridging technical innovation with real-world societal needs. Though no student advisees are listed, her work likely impacts both academic and industry research ecosystems.
Thierry Busso is a Professor in the Department of Physical Education at Université Jean Monnet in Saint-Étienne, France. He is a leading researcher in exercise physiology, specializing in mathematical modeling of training responses and performance optimization. His work has significantly advanced understanding of fatigue accumulation, tapering strategies, and physiological adaptation to exercise. Education: PhD in Exercise Physiology, Université Jean Monnet (1991) Qualification for Research Supervision, Université Jean Monnet (1995) Graduate Degree in Biological Engineering, University of Technology of Compiègne (1985) Thierry Busso's research focuses on developing and applying mathematical models to understand how the body responds to physical training. His work explores the complex dynamics of fatigue, adaptation, and performance, particularly in athletic populations. He investigates how training loads accumulate, how recovery occurs, and how to optimize training programs for peak performance. His research bridges theoretical modeling with practical applications in sports science and health. His recent publications demonstrate a strong trend in using quantitative and computational approaches to model training effects, particularly in swimming, sprint training, and endurance performance. His work frequently appears in top journals such as Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise and Sports Medicine , covering areas like impulse-response modeling, autonomic recovery, and performance prediction. Scientific Awards and Recognition: No specific awards mentioned in the provided text. Thierry Busso has held significant leadership roles in research, including directing the Department of Physical Education (1997–2001), serving as deputy director of the Laboratory of Exercise Physiology (2011–2015), and founding and leading the Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology (2016–2020). He is actively involved in the [PAF] research team. While specific grant details are not listed, his sustained research output and leadership suggest ongoing research funding. He has contributed to major reviews on tapering and training modeling, and his work on heart rate variability in older adults highlights his interest in exercise applications across the lifespan. His research group focuses on both elite performance and public health aspects of physical activity.
Dr. Carole Cometti is a Research Fellow at the University of Burgundy , affiliated with the School of Sports Science . As Co-Director of the Center of Expertise in Performance (CEP) , she specializes in neuromuscular adaptation to training, sports biomechanics, and physical preparation for elite athletes. Doctorate in Muscle Physiology Master 2 APAS (Adapted Physical Activity) BTS Dietetics University Diploma in Physical Preparation Her research focuses on neuromuscular adaptations , stretching protocols , and recovery methods in sports. Recent work explores complexity analysis in women's soccer, cognitive function in athletes , and muscle activation dynamics using electromyography. Key publication trends include: Biomechanics of soccer and cycling Postural stability interventions Electromyography in muscle adaptation Recovery techniques like contrast water immersion Mixed reality applications in sports training Dr. Cometti collaborates extensively with the Marey Centre and CEP platforms, contributing to applied research in elite athlete performance and technology transfer projects.
