Dr. Saumen Sarkar is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, with an additional appointment in the Program in Oncology. His research focuses on innate immune signaling during viral infections and cancer, particularly mechanisms of type I interferon (IFN) induction and modulation by host components like the OAS family genes. He has authored over 77 publications spanning virology, immunology, and molecular biology. Education: PhD in Molecular Biophysics (Indian Institute of Science), MSc in Biophysics (University of Calcutta), BSc (University of Calcutta) His work explores the dual antiviral and antibacterial functions of OAS1, interactions between RIG-I and OASL, and the role of interferon regulatory factors in tumor progression and immunotherapy. Key contributions include elucidating how OASL enhances RIG-I signaling and identifying novel immune-modulating roles for TLR3 tyrosine residues. Recent publications (2024) highlight OAS1's mechanisms in translational shutdown during viral infection and its newly discovered antibacterial functions via IRF1. Earlier work (2019-2010) addresses DNA virus immune evasion, MAVS regulation, and translational research in head/neck cancers. Dr. Sarkar's research integrates structural biology (e.g., 2003 OAS crystal structure) and systems approaches (2024 cell-type-specific networks) to understand host-pathogen interactions and tumor immunity.
Maria Brbic is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at EPFL, previously a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University under Jure Leskovec. Her research focuses on developing machine learning methods for biological and biomedical applications, particularly representation learning of high-dimensional datasets, open-world semi-supervised learning, and single-cell genomics. Her work includes the STELLAR method for spatial cell type discovery (Nature Methods 2022), the ORCA framework for open-world learning (ICLR 2022), and contributions to the Fly Cell Atlas (Science 2022). She is involved in the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub and Neuro-omics projects. She received the University of Zagreb's best thesis award, was recognized as a MIT Rising Star in EECS, and won the Basel Computational Biology Conference best poster award. Her research bridges computer science with cutting-edge biomedical discovery.
Nancy M. Bonini, Ph.D., is the Florence R.C. Murray Professor of Biology in the School of Arts and Sciences at the University of Pennsylvania , an Investigator of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute , and holds secondary appointments in Cell & Developmental Biology and Neuroscience at the Perelman School of Medicine . Education: A.B. Biology, Princeton University, 1981 Ph.D. Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1987 Postdoctoral Fellow, California Institute of Technology (Neurogenetics), 1988–1994 Research Focus: The Bonini laboratory exploits the power of Drosophila melanogaster genetics to identify conserved genes and pathways that protect the nervous system from degeneration. By introducing human disease genes into flies, the lab replicates late-onset, progressive neurodegeneration seen in Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, ALS/FTD and age-related cognitive decline. Central themes include: Molecular chaperones and protein-folding pathways that mitigate toxic protein aggregation. microRNA-mediated gene regulation in aging and neurodegeneration. Epigenetic dysregulation in Alzheimer’s disease and its intersection with normal aging. RNA toxicity and repeat-associated non-ATG translation in CAG/polyQ disorders. Metabolic and sleep disturbances linked to TDP-43 and Ataxin-2 dysfunction. Axonal injury responses and the role of Nmnat in maintaining neuronal integrity. Publication Landscape: Across 139 peer-reviewed publications (1986–2024), Bonini’s work spans high-impact journals such as Nature , Science , Cell , Nature Genetics , PNAS and Nature Neuroscience . Early papers established Drosophila polyQ models and identified Hsp70 as a potent suppressor of neural degeneration. Mid-career studies broadened to Parkinson’s α-synuclein toxicity, RNA toxicity in spinocerebellar ataxia, and CREB-binding protein effects on repeat instability. Recent output integrates multi-omics, single-cell and epigenomic approaches to dissect Alzheimer’s disease, glial senescence, m6A/m1A RNA modifications and metabolic dysfunction in sleep. Scientific Honors & Awards: NIH R35 Outstanding Investigator Award (2016) Glenn Award for Research in the Biological Mechanisms of Aging (2015) Member, American Academy of Arts and Sciences (2014) Member, National Academy of Medicine (2012) Member, National Academy of Sciences (2012) Member, American Association for the Advancement of Science (2012) Ellison Medical Foundation Senior Scholar Award in Aging Research (2009) NIH EUREKA Award (2009) David & Lucile Packard Fellowship for Science & Engineering (1997) Basil O’Connor Starter Scholar Award, March of Dimes (1996) John Merck Scholars Award in the Biology of Developmental Disabilities in Children (1995) Funding & Mentorship: Bonini has sustained continuous NIH and private foundation support for over three decades. Her lab has trained a large cohort of graduate students and postdocs who have gone on to independent positions in academia and industry. She teaches advanced courses in Molecular Biology & Genetics (BIOL 221) and Molecular Genetics of Neurological Diseases (BIOL 466), integrating cutting-edge research into graduate and undergraduate curricula. Laboratory & Resources: The Bonini Lab is housed in the Carolyn Lynch and Leidy Laboratories at the University of Pennsylvania, equipped with state-of-the-art Drosophila genetics, molecular biology, imaging and multi-omics platforms. The group maintains extensive fly stocks, transgenic lines and genomic datasets that are shared with the broader scientific community. Collaborative networks span Penn’s Perelman School of Medicine, the Mahoney Institute of Neurological Sciences, and numerous national and international consortia focused on neurodegeneration.
Per Eriksson is a Professor at the Department of Organismal Biology; Physiology and Environmental Toxicology at Uppsala University. His research focuses on the neurotoxic effects of environmental chemicals and radiation on brain development, with particular emphasis on how these exposures during critical neonatal periods lead to long-term neurobehavioral consequences. His research interests span several interconnected domains: Developmental neurotoxicology of environmental chemicals Neurobehavioral effects of flame retardants (particularly PBDEs) Interactions between multiple toxicants during brain development Long-term cognitive and behavioral outcomes of early-life exposures Mechanisms of neurotoxicity at cellular and molecular levels Professor Eriksson's publication record demonstrates a consistent research trajectory examining how combinations of chemicals (such as perfluorinated compounds with brominated flame retardants, or radiation with pharmaceuticals) produce synergistic effects that exacerbate neurodevelopmental problems. His work frequently employs mouse models to investigate dose-response relationships, critical exposure windows, and sex-specific vulnerabilities. His laboratory has trained numerous researchers who have become established scientists in toxicology and neuroscience. Professor Eriksson's work has significantly contributed to understanding how environmental factors can disrupt normal brain development and increase susceptibility to neurological disorders later in life.
Dr. Michael R. Hayden is a University Killam Professor in the Department of Medical Genetics at the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Medicine. He serves as a Senior Scientist at the Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics/BC Children's Hospital Research Institute and directs the Centre for Huntington Disease. His research spans multiple prestigious institutions including BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, BC Diabetes Research Network, and Centre for Brain Health. Dr. Hayden's research focuses on genetic medicine, particularly Huntington disease, neurodegenerative disorders, and gene therapy. His laboratory investigates silencing the mutant huntingtin gene, modulating huntingtin post-translational modifications, discovering novel neuroprotective targets, and studying population genetics of Huntington disease mutations. Additionally, his work extends to lipoprotein lipase deficiency gene therapy development. His research philosophy emphasizes that 'sick people depend on us and others for new therapies,' driving his team's commitment to developing treatments that can slow or reverse disease progression. Analysis of Dr. Hayden's recent publications reveals a strong focus on Huntington disease therapeutics, particularly gene silencing approaches and biomarker development. His work spans basic molecular mechanisms to clinical applications, with increasing emphasis on translational research that bridges laboratory findings to patient treatments. The publications demonstrate a multidisciplinary approach combining genetics, neuroscience, and molecular pharmacology to address neurodegenerative conditions. Doctor of Science in Medicine (DSc(Med)) (honoris causa), University of Cape Town, South Africa (2024) Best Scientist in the World, Ranked #860 & Best Scientist in Canada, Ranked #19 Award by Research.com (2023) Lifetime Achievement Award, Huntington Study Group, USA (2023) Induction to the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame (2017) Order of Canada (2010) Killam Prize, Canada Council of the Arts (2011) Dr. Hayden has trained over 86 postdoctoral fellows and 45 graduate students, with nearly all holding competitive funding and winning prestigious awards. His lab provides exceptional resources through over 100 collaborations with world-class investigators and industrial partners. Trainees benefit from sophisticated laboratory facilities, administrative support, and access to seminars and workshops hosted by multiple research institutions. His mentorship philosophy emphasizes communication skills, critical thinking, and preparing trainees for future research leadership. The Hayden Lab operates within the Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics at BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, providing access to advanced facilities including the Bioinformatics Assistance Centre, Huntington Disease BioBank, Imaging Core Facility, and specialized mouse research resources. The lab maintains strong connections with the Centre for Brain Health and other UBC research networks, creating a collaborative environment focused on translating genetic discoveries into therapeutic interventions for neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases.
Svetlana N. Radyuk serves as a Research Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences within Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences at Southern Methodist University. Her laboratory (DLSB 317) focuses on the molecular mechanisms linking redox regulation, innate immunity, and aging processes using Drosophila melanogaster as a primary model system. Her research centers on redox regulation of innate immunity during aging , specifically investigating how peroxiredoxins modulate immune responses and longevity. Key areas include: Role of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) as dual-function molecules causing tissue damage while serving as immune signaling messengers Conserved functions of peroxiredoxins across biological kingdoms in regulating redox homeostasis Age-related immune decline including reduced pathogen resistance, impaired T/B cell function, and chronic inflammation Interactions between circadian clocks, redox balance, and aging processes Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a consistent focus on peroxiredoxin-mediated redox signaling in Drosophila models, with recent expansion into hydrogen gas therapeutics for oxidative stress-related conditions. Her work demonstrates how precise ROS/RNS regulation balances immune protection against tissue damage, with significant implications for age-related diseases. Dr. Radyuk currently holds two major NIH/NIA-funded research grants: R01 AG032342 (Principal Investigator): Peroxiredoxins, immune signaling and aging (2011-2016) R01 AG045830 (Co-PI): Circadian clocks and aging (2013-2018) Her teaching portfolio includes advanced courses in Immunobiology (BIOL 4319), Molecular Genetics Laboratory (BIOL 3222), and graduate-level research/thesis supervision (BIOL 6270, 8398). Her laboratory employs comprehensive molecular biology and genetics techniques to investigate redox-immunity interactions, with particular emphasis on developing interventions that maintain optimal immune function during aging.
Nikolaos Louros is an Assistant Professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center, with dual affiliations to the Center for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases (CAND) and the Department of Biophysics. He leads the Louros Lab, which focuses on protein misfolding, aggregation, and amyloid formation in neurodegenerative diseases. His research integrates AI-driven protein engineering with biophysical, structural, and cellular methods to develop novel therapeutics. B.S. in Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2011) MSc in Bioinformatics (2014) Ph.D. in Cell Biology and Biophysics, NKUA (2016) Postdoctoral training at VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Belgium Dr. Louros' research centers on the molecular mechanisms of protein aggregation, particularly in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. His lab investigates amyloid polymorphism, heterotypic interactions, and the role of post-translational modifications like glycosylation in proteostasis. Using computational tools and experimental validation, his team aims to identify aggregation modifiers and design novel inhibitors. His recent publications reveal a strong focus on amyloid structure, calcium dysregulation, and therapeutic targeting. Key themes include tau and Aβ polymorphism, co-aggregation with proteins like Medin, and the use of AI to map aggregation-prone sequences. His work frequently appears in top-tier journals such as Nature , Science , Cell , and Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology . Pharmacological modulation of septins in Alzheimer’s models Medin-Aβ co-aggregation in vascular amyloid AI-guided mapping of amyloid sequence space Structural basis of tau polymorphism Therapeutic targeting of pathogenic tau seeds Dr. Louros has not been listed with formal scientific awards in the provided text, but his publication record and leadership role indicate significant recognition. He is actively mentoring students and postdocs, as his lab is recruiting for Ph.D. candidates and research associates. The Louros Lab operates within the Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration in neuroscience and biophysics. The lab employs a hybrid, inquiry-driven approach, combining deep learning, protein engineering, and high-throughput experimentation. It maintains strong collaborative ties with leading institutions and researchers in the field of neurodegeneration and protein science.
Associate Professor Rebecca Burton is a cardiac electrophysiologist in the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Oxford's Medical Sciences Division. Since completing her DPhil in 2006, she has led research on cardiac arrhythmias with focus on lysosomal calcium signaling and hydroxychloroquine's effects on heart rhythm. Her group of approximately 10 researchers employs novel imaging methods and traditional pharmacology techniques to study cardiac function. Her research interests center on cardiac arrhythmia mechanisms, particularly the role of lysosomal calcium stores in atrial fibrillation. She investigates cAMP-Ca 2+ cross talk in atrial nanodomains, IP3 receptor signaling , and acidic organelle function in cardiomyocytes. Her work bridges basic science with translational applications through collaborations with clinicians across disciplines. Her 15 most recent publications (2022-2025) demonstrate consistent focus on lysosomal calcium signaling in cardiac rhythm regulation, with particular emphasis on atrial-specific mechanisms. Key themes include compartmentalized cAMP signaling, NAADP-mediated calcium release, and the role of endolysosomal networks in atrial fibrillation pathophysiology. Scientific recognition includes: Winston Churchill Medal for contributions to Science and Technology (2015-2016) Sir Henry Dale Fellowship supporting her ambitious interdisciplinary research Beyond research, Burton serves in teaching roles including examination setting and marking, provides pastoral care at her college, and actively engages in public outreach through events like the Science Museum Lates. She has advocated for improved career pathways for early-career researchers and greater equality of opportunity in academia. Her laboratory specializes in advanced cardiac optical mapping, lysosomal calcium imaging, and multi-disciplinary approaches to studying the neuro-cardiac axis, with particular focus on how sympathetic neuronal activity affects cardiac conduction and arrhythmia susceptibility.
Mark C. Fishman, M.D., is a Professor of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology at Harvard University and affiliated with the Harvard Stem Cell Institute. His laboratory investigates the heart-brain axis using zebrafish to map autonomic control circuits and decode the genetic/neuronal basis of vertebrate social behavior . From 2002-2016, he led Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, advancing 90 medicines to clinical trials, with a focus on regenerative therapies for aging disorders. Education : Yale College (A.B.), Harvard Medical School (M.D.) Academic Leadership : Former Chief of Cardiology and Director of Cardiovascular Research Center at Harvard Medical School and MGH Research spans cardiovascular development , neurogenetics , and translational medicine , with seminal work on zebrafish genetic screens in the 1990s establishing pathways for vertebrate organ formation. His lab introduced zebrafish as a model for dissecting social interaction circuits and homeostatic regulation . Current work explores how internal sensory systems shape behavior through genetic and pharmacological interventions. Recent publications highlight zebrafish studies on age-related vascular calcification (αKlotho), dopamine transporter mutations (psychiatric models), and collective behavior genetics . Articles span 1996-2025, reflecting continuous contributions to Developmental Biology , Neuroscience , and Cardiovascular Research . Awards include election to the National Academy of Medicine (20-year member), Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences , and leadership roles in biotech (Aditum Bio, Beam Therapeutics). He authored the textbook Medicine and Lab: Building a Home for Scientists , bridging architectural design with scientific innovation. Teaching includes SCRB 197/297 Frontiers in Therapeutics , examining disease elimination promises and personalized medicine through historical and modern therapeutic frameworks. His lab in Sherman Fairchild Building (Cambridge, MA) continues mentoring interdisciplinary researchers in cardiovascular-neurobiological interfaces.
Dr. Baljit S. Khakh is a Professor of Neurobiology and Physiology at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles. He holds the Eleanor I. Leslie Chair of Neuroscience and leads groundbreaking research on astrocyte biology, calcium signaling, and their roles in neural circuits and neurodegenerative diseases. His work integrates optical/genetic tools with proteomic and behavioral studies, funded by multiple NIH grants including R01, R35, and DP1 awards. Research Focus: Astrocyte diversity, calcium signaling, Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's pathology, neural circuit modulation. Key Collaborations: Michael Sofroniew (UCLA), Loren Looger (Janelia), James Wohlschlegel (UCLA), Peyman Golshani (UCLA). Techniques: Genetically-encoded sensors, proximity biotinylation, in vivo calcium imaging, astrocyte-neuron interaction assays. Scientific Awards: Eleanor I. Leslie Chair of Neuroscience
Thomas J. Jentsch is a leading Professor at the Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP) in Berlin, with secondary affiliation to the Max Delbrück Center (MDC) . He holds dual doctorates in Medicine and Physics from Freie Universität Berlin and has pioneered research in ion transport physiology since co-founding the Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg in 1988. Head of Jentsch Group at FMP since 2006 World leader in chloride channel research His research bridges molecular physiology and human genetics , focusing on: CLC family chloride channels/transporters VRAC/LRRC8 volume-regulated channels ASOR/TMEM206 acid-activated channels Pathologies: neurodegeneration, deafness, osteopetrosis, hypertension Recent work includes breakthroughs in VRAC channel structure (2023) and CLCN7 channelopathies (2024). His lab employs genetically modified mouse models and human mutation analysis to uncover disease mechanisms.
Greg J. Bashaw is a Professor of Neuroscience at the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania. He directs a research lab focused on molecular mechanisms of axon growth and guidance, particularly at the nervous system midline. His work spans Drosophila embryonic CNS and mouse spinal cord systems, investigating evolutionary conserved pathways like Slit-Robo and Netrin-DCC. Education: B.A. in Biology from Brown University (1990), Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Stanford University (1997) under Bruce Baker Key Research Areas: Axon guidance, neural circuit assembly, receptor signaling, transcriptional regulation, and developmental neuroscience His laboratory explores non-canonical receptor roles, transcriptional networks in motor connectivity, and receptor degradation pathways. Awards include the Jane Glick Memorial Graduate Student Teaching and Mentoring Award, NIH NINDS Research Program Award (R35), and NSF grant (IOS-1355181) supporting both research and science outreach. Recent publications highlight discoveries in Robo-WAVE complex interactions, human DCC variants in mirror movement disorders, and receptor trafficking mechanisms. Collaborative work with institutions like Harvard, Johns Hopkins, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory demonstrates interdisciplinary impact. Scientific Awards Jane Glick Memorial Graduate Student Teaching and Mentoring Award NIH NINDS Research Program Award (R35) NSF grant renewal (IOS-1355181) Louis Flexner Neuroscience Thesis Prize Tom Kadesch Genetics Thesis Prize Saul Winegrad Award for Outstanding Dissertation Training Legacy 15+ PhD graduates in neuroscience, genetics, and molecular biology Lab alumni now hold academic positions at Yale, Harvard, and international institutions NSF-funded DrosoPHILA outreach program with Philadelphia high schools
Miriam B. Goodman holds the Mrs. George A. Winzer Professorship of Cell Biology at Stanford University , with affiliations in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology , Bio-X , and the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute . As Chair of the Molecular and Cellular Physiology Department (2017–present) and former Deputy Director of the Stanford Neuroscience Institute (2013–2017), she leads interdisciplinary research bridging neuroscience, biophysics, and molecular physiology . Education : Ph.D. in Neurobiology, The University of Chicago (1995) Sc.B. in Biochemistry, Brown University (1986) Her research focuses on molecular mechanotransduction using C. elegans to investigate touch sensation, temperature detection, and neuronal stress resilience . Key methodologies include quantitative behavioral analysis , CRISPR gene editing , and in vivo electrophysiology . Recent work explores mechanical forces in feeding through upconverting microgauges and chemosensory integration of plant-derived molecules. Her publications span neurobiological mechanisms , biomechanical sensor design , and ecological signal processing , with a 2025 Nature study on ingestible nanosensors and a 2024 Current Biology paper on mechanosensory complex organization . Scientific Awards : Distinguished Alumni Award, University of Chicago (2024) Landis Award for Outstanding Mentoring, NIH (2019) Michael and Kate Barany Award, Biophysical Society (2014) Klingenstein Fellow in Neuroscience (2005-2008) McKnight Scholar Award (2005-2008) Prize in Neurobiology, Eppendorf & Science (2004) As an advisor, she mentors doctoral candidates in the Biophysics , Molecular and Cellular Physiology , and Neurosciences Ph.D. programs , including Madeline Cooper and Caroline Arellano-Garcia. Her lab collaborates with UC San Diego's Vergassola Group on mechanosensory physics and Stanford Microsystems Lab on optical sensor design .
Prof. Dr. Lukas C. Kapitein is a leading researcher in Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics at the Faculty of Science, Utrecht University . His work bridges physics and neuroscience to understand how cells maintain their shape and intracellular organization, particularly in neurons. Academic Affiliation: Full Professor of Molecular and Cellular Biophysics since 2018 Key Collaborations: Co-manages the Gravitation project IMAGINE! with Anna Akhmanova Research Focus: The lab investigates the neuronal cytoskeleton , emphasizing microtubule organization and motor protein dynamics. They develop advanced optical methods to map cytoskeletal architecture and design intracellular assays to probe motor-cargo interactions, linking these to neurodegenerative disease mechanisms. Awards: ERC Consolidator Grant (2018), ERC Starting Grant (2013), NWO VIDI (2013), NWO ALW-VENI (2011), Erasmus MC Fellowship (2011). Students: PhD students include Albert Serweta, Thijs Makaske, Jasper Schelt, and Varsha Mahapatra. The lab also features postdocs and technical staff in microscopy and protein engineering. Methods: Combines protein engineering , super-resolution microscopy (STED, Localization, Expansion), and mathematical modeling to resolve microtubule polarity, transport rules, and dendritic spine dynamics.
Louis S. Bouchard is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). His interdisciplinary research spans physical chemistry, biomedical engineering, and quantum computing, with a focus on NMR/MRI technologies, immunotherapy, and materials science. He earned a B.Sc. in Physics and Business Management from McGill University, a M.Sc. in Medical Biophysics from the University of Toronto, and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Princeton University. His postdoctoral work at UC Berkeley with Alex Pines advanced low-field NMR and hyperpolarization methods. Research Interests : Physical & analytical chemistry, materials for immunotherapy, MRI contrast agents, biosensors, quantum control, machine learning in biomedical imaging. Lab Focus : Operando NMR methods, molecular kinetics, tissue engineering, quantum computing, and machine learning algorithms. His group has developed groundbreaking technologies, including: NMR methods for topological insulator surface states 12% 15N hyperpolarization catalysts for MRI Operando NMR in catalytic reactors Multi-channel 3D tissue bioreactors Scientific awards include the Beckman Young Investigator Award (2012), Dreyfus New Faculty Award (2008), and multiple UCLA faculty development grants. Current projects recruit students in machine learning , molecular kinetics , and quantum computing applications to chemistry and biology.
