Karen Agaronyan is an Associate Research Scientist in the Department of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Her research focuses on understanding fundamental mechanisms of immunity, viral pathogenesis, and mitochondrial biology. She investigates how innate immune sensors like TLR9 regulate antiviral responses during influenza infection and explores mitochondrial dysfunction in human oocytes with pathogenic mutations. Her work bridges virology, immunology, and molecular biology, with recent studies addressing post-viral bacterial infections and allergic inflammation triggered by tissue remodeling. She contributes to Yale's Immunobiology Graduate Program and participates in seminars like the Immunobiology Seminar Series and Human and Translational Immunology events. Karen's research areas include type 2 immune responses, mitochondrial gene expression mechanisms, and translational applications of mitochondrial replacement therapy. Her publications span topics from innate immunity to epigenetic regulation in mitochondria.
Mariella Finetti Sialer is a Senior Researcher at the Institute of Biosciences and BioResources (IBBR), part of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR) in Bari. Her research spans molecular plant pathology, functional genomics, and sustainable agriculture, with a strong emphasis on both abiotic and biotic stress responses in plants. Her research interests focus on the molecular mechanisms underlying plant responses to drought, salinity, viral infections, and nematode infestations. She specializes in using functional genomics tools and molecular diagnostics for the detection and management of plant diseases. A key area of her work involves the study of beneficial microorganisms such as Pochonia chlamydosporia and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), which are used in biological control and to enhance plant growth. This research is conducted in collaboration with La Molina University in Peru, reflecting her international engagement. The analysis of her recent publications reveals a consistent focus on plant-pathogen interactions, small RNA biology, molecular diagnostics, and sustainable crop protection strategies. Her work integrates advanced molecular techniques with practical applications in agriculture, particularly in the conservation and valorization of local crop landraces in the Apulia region through projects like SaVeGraINPuglia. Her scientific contributions are extensive, with active research output up to 2023. She is involved in multi-institutional projects and has contributed to the development of real-time assays for pathogen detection, RNA silencing mechanisms, and biodiversity conservation initiatives. Senior Researcher, IBBR-CNR, Bari Active in molecular plant pathology and biological control Collaborator in international and regional agricultural projects
Gavin Bowen-Metcalf is a Senior Lecturer in Genetics and Developmental Biology within the Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge. He holds Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) and the Royal Society of Medicine (FRSM), and leads teaching in Biomedical Science and Laboratory Science programs. He is also the Course Leader for the BSc (Hons) Laboratory Scientist degree apprenticeship and actively supervises undergraduate, MSc, and PhD students. Education: BSc (Hons) Human Biosciences, University of Northampton MRes (DIC) Oncology and Cancer Biology, Imperial College London Joint PhD in Clinical Medicine (Molecular Oncology) and Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London PGCert in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, Anglia Ruskin University Gavin’s research centers on cancer biology, particularly the role of non-coding RNAs such as microRNAs in cancer development, metastasis, drug resistance, and early diagnosis. His work spans translational applications in molecular oncology, genomics, and histopathology, with a strong focus on identifying novel drug targets and leveraging natural compounds for cancer therapy. His interdisciplinary approach integrates molecular biology, biomedical engineering, and clinical diagnostics. The recent publications highlight a consistent focus on microRNA-based cancer diagnostics, amplification-free detection technologies, biosensors, and public science communication. His work bridges laboratory research with real-world applications in early cancer detection and patient care, often through innovative engineering solutions and collaborations across academia, industry, and healthcare. Scientific Awards and Recognitions: Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine (FRSM) ACS’ Editors Choice (2016) for groundbreaking work in analytical chemistry and cancer diagnostics Gavin has held research and clinical roles in the NHS, the medical devices industry (Clearblue), and the Wellcome Sanger Institute. He is an Associate Editor for Nature Oncogene , external examiner for the Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham, and provides research supervision across multiple levels. He is also actively involved in public engagement through media contributions to The Conversation UK and educational outreach via Springpod’s Subject Spotlight series. Labs and Research Groups: He leads the Cancer Cell Biology Research Sub-Group at ARU and conducts research involving circulating nucleic acids, microRNA biomarkers, and natural therapeutics. His work benefits from collaborations with clinical and industrial partners, enhancing translational impact. He is also a visiting scholar at multiple institutions, extending his academic influence.
Subagini Nagarajah is a Consultant Lecturer at the Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark. She is affiliated with Odense University Hospital (OUH) and specializes in nephrology, with a focus on kidney transplantation and immunology. Research Interests: Kidney transplantation, long non-coding RNA, transplant immunology, and chronic disease management. Collaborations: Active in multidisciplinary networks for diabetes and multimorbidity, including the NOMAD intervention. Recent Research Trends: Her work explores molecular biomarkers (e.g., endotrophin, FOXP3) in transplant outcomes, using techniques like ELISA and RNA analysis. Collaborative studies emphasize patient-reported outcomes and multidisciplinary care.
Prof. Alexander Bartelt is a Professor at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), holding the Chair of Translational Nutritional Medicine at the TUM School of Life Sciences since 2024. He is also a research group leader at the Helmholtz Diabetes Center and affiliated with the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD) and German Center for Cardiovascular Diseases (DZHK). His research focuses on molecular mechanisms underlying metabolic diseases, lipid metabolism, and adipose tissue biology. Education: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology studies at the University of Hamburg Doctorate (summa cum laude) at University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (2010) Research Interests: Molecular basis of metabolism, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and the role of nutrition in metabolic regulation. His work emphasizes metabolic adaptation to stress factors and the interplay between lipid metabolism and immune responses. Awards: ERC Starting Grant (2019) Friedmund Neumann Prize (2018) ISSFAL Early Career Award (2014) Grants & Labs: Recipient of DFG grants and international funding. Active in collaborative projects on brown fat thermogenesis and lipid metabolism. His lab integrates molecular biology, systems biology, and translational approaches to combat metabolic disorders.
Associate Professor Martin Smith is a computational biologist and Director of the Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics at UNSW. Specializing in transcriptomics, RNA biology, and AI-driven genomic technologies, his research focuses on long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), RNA structure-function relationships, and nanopore sequencing applications in immunology, cancer, and neuroscience. He holds a PhD in genomics from the University of Queensland and has held roles at the Garvan Institute, Kinghorn Centre, and CHU Sainte-Justine Research Centre. His work bridges basic science and clinical translation, with commercial ventures including two nanopore sequencing platforms and patents in genomic tools. Education: BSc in Microbiology/Immunology (Université de Montréal), MSc in Bioinformatics (Infectious Disease Research Centre), PhD in Genomics (UQ), Postdoc at Garvan Institute Research Interests: RNA biology, machine learning in genomics, nanopore sequencing, clinical genomics applications Affiliations: Director, Ramaciotti Centre for Genomics; Adjunct Professor at Université de Montréal His lab develops tools like ECSfinder for RNA structure prediction and Assembly Arena for isoform reconstruction. He advocates for real-time genomic epidemiology and has contributed to SARS-CoV-2 studies during the pandemic. Key labs/teams: The Smith Laboratory (UNSW), collaborations with clinical and industry partners.
Dr. Chantel Fitzsimmons is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Newcastle's School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy. Her primary affiliation is with the College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing. She holds a PhD in Medical Genetics from the University of Newcastle and has conducted research at institutions in France, including the Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI) and the Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon. Her research focuses on viral pathogenicity mechanisms, oncopharmacology, and neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly schizophrenia. She has contributed to studies on Ebola virus immune evasion, cancer drug interactions, and precision medicine strategies using cerebral organoids. Education: PhD in Medical Genetics (University of Newcastle), Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology), and Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honours), both from the University of Newcastle. Research Interests: Molecular virology, viral pathogenesis, pharmacogenomics, schizophrenia genetics, epigenetics, and miRNA/circRNA regulation. Her work spans from viral host interactions to neurobiological mechanisms underlying psychiatric disorders. Publications: Over 12 peer-reviewed articles, including studies on schizophrenia genomic profiling, circRNA dysregulation, and mRNA post-transcriptional dynamics. Her work bridges basic science with clinical translation, particularly in neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions. Awards: Australian Postgraduate Award (2007), Alzheimer’s Association travel fellowship (2008), and the Philip Emlyn Thomas Honours Scholarship (2005). Grants: Recipient of the Emlyn and Jennie Thomas Postgraduate Medical Research Scholarship (2015–2016) supporting her research into genetic and epigenetic complexity in schizophrenia. Supervision: Co-supervised two PhD students (2019) focusing on genomic resolution in schizophrenia and miRNA/circRNA roles in synaptic plasticity. Labs/Teams: Part of the Centre for Complex Disease Neurobiology and Precision Medicine under Conjoint Professor Murray Cairns, exploring pharmacogenomic strategies for schizophrenia treatment.
Roles & Affiliations: Dylan Kiltschewskij is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Molecular Neurobiology department at the University of Newcastle's School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy. He also holds a Casual Academic appointment at the same institution. His primary affiliation is with Professor Murray Cairns’ Complex Disorder Group. Education: Bachelor of Biomedical Science (First Class Honours), University of Newcastle (2015) PhD in Medical Genetics, University of Newcastle Research Interests: Dylan’s work focuses on the intersection of neuroscience, genetics, and psychiatric disorders. He employs multidimensional molecular techniques, systems biology, and statistical genetics to investigate: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for psychiatric disorder mechanisms Epigenetic profiling (DNA methylation) for schizophrenia risk stratification Noncoding RNA (microRNA, circRNA) roles in neuronal differentiation Drug repurposing opportunities through biochemical exposure studies Publications Trends: His 15 most recent articles (2020–2025) emphasize: Cardiovascular toxicity in cancer therapies Cortical anatomy-genetic biomarker correlations Federated neuroimaging analysis in psychiatric disorders Molecular mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders Awards: 2016 Australian Postgraduate Award 2015 Faculty of Health and Medicine Medal Multiple undergraduate prizes (2014–2015) Grants & Supervision: Principal supervisor for a current PhD student researching cancer genetics Total grant funding: $39,000 across 7 grants (2018–2022) Highlighted grant: 'Utilising Epigenetic Risk for Schizophrenia as a Platform for Precision Medicine' ($10,000, 2022) Labs/Teams: Active in the Cairns lab, focusing on psychiatric disorder mechanisms and precision medicine applications.
Michelle Gibbs is an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Auburn University, where she leads the Gibbs Lab focused on molecular microbiology and environmental adaptation in microbes. Her work bridges research and undergraduate education, emphasizing hands-on training and curriculum development. Education: Postdoc - UCLA (2023) Postdoc - NICHD, NIH (2021) Ph.D. - The Ohio State University (2020) B.S. - Miami University (OH) (2014) Her research centers on how microorganisms regulate gene expression and ribosome function in response to environmental changes such as nutrient and metal availability. She investigates mechanisms at both transcriptional and translational levels, particularly focusing on ribosome biogenesis and RNA processing. Her lab actively engages undergraduate students in cutting-edge biochemical and genetic research. The recent publications reflect a strong trajectory in RNA biology, translational control, and ribosomal assembly, with work published in top journals like PNAS and Cell Reports . Themes include splicing regulation, mRNA decay, and the role of conserved GTPases in ribosomal subunit formation, highlighting a deep integration of genetics, biochemistry, and systems-level analysis. Scientific Awards: No awards listed in the provided text. Michelle Gibbs is actively involved in mentoring undergraduate researchers, as seen in the regular updates on lab members joining and graduating. She teaches BIOL 4101 (Cell Biology Lab) and is committed to expanding CURE (Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience) programs. Her lab, located in the Rouse Life Sciences Building, focuses on microbial adaptation using molecular, genetic, and biochemical approaches to understand survival strategies in changing environments.
Johnathan R. Whetstine is a Professor and Director of the Cancer Epigenetics Institute at Fox Chase Cancer Center, where he also serves as Program Leader of the Nuclear Dynamics and Cancer Program and holds the Jack Schultz Chair in Basic Science. His research is centered on epigenetic mechanisms driving DNA amplification, genome instability, and drug resistance in cancer. Education: Postdoctoral Fellow, Epigenetics/Pathology, Harvard Medical School, 2002–2007 PhD, Pharmacology, Wayne State University, 2002 Dr. Whetstine’s research focuses on chromatin regulators, particularly the KDM4A histone demethylase, which his lab discovered promotes transient site-specific copy gains (TSSGs) of oncogenes. His lab investigates how epigenetic cues—such as hypoxia and microRNA regulation—influence DNA replication, cell cycle progression, and therapeutic resistance. They use genomic, epigenomic, and biochemical approaches to map chromatin dynamics during the cell cycle and identify factors that drive extrachromosomal DNA amplification. The 15 most recent publications highlight a strong focus on epigenetic control of gene amplification (e.g., EGFR, MLL), histone demethylase function, replication timing, and chromatin crosstalk. These studies span cancer types including lung and colorectal cancers and explore therapeutic implications such as mTOR inhibitor sensitivity and epigenetic therapy. Scientific Awards: Lung Cancer Discovery Award (American Lung Association, 2014, 2017, 2019, 2020) Tepper Family MGH Research Scholar (2014) Basic Research Scholar Award (American Cancer Society, 2013) Ellison Medical Foundation New Scholar Award (2009) Jack Schultz Chair in Basic Science (2019) Dr. Whetstine mentors postdoctoral fellows and collaborates with clinicians to translate findings into patient stratification and optimal treatment strategies. He is actively involved in training programs at Fox Chase, emphasizing leadership, communication, and scientific development. His lab is part of a vibrant epigenetics research community that includes annual symposia and industry collaborations. Research Labs and Teams: The Whetstine Laboratory is a key component of the Cancer Epigenetics Institute at Fox Chase, which fosters interdisciplinary collaboration among epigeneticists, clinicians, and industry partners. The lab leverages advanced technologies in genomics and epigenomics and participates in national and international scientific networks.
Dr. Stephanie Daws is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neural Sciences at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University. She is also affiliated with the Center for Substance Abuse Research, where she leads the Daws Lab focused on the neurobiological underpinnings of substance use disorders, particularly opioid addiction. Education: PhD in Neuroscience, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN Postdoctoral Fellowship, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY BS in Molecular and Microbiology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL Her research integrates molecular biology and behavioral neuroscience to study how molecular mechanisms in the brain sustain drug-seeking behavior after abstinence. She employs rodent models of drug self-administration to investigate epigenetic and non-coding RNA regulation in addiction pathways. Her recent work highlights the roles of microRNAs and circular RNAs in heroin seeking, relapse, and neuroinflammatory responses. The analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on non-coding RNA mechanisms (especially circular RNAs and microRNAs), neuroepigenetics, and the impact of drugs like psilocybin on addictive behaviors. Her studies frequently involve brain regions such as the nucleus accumbens, orbitofrontal cortex, and amygdala, focusing on transcriptional and translational regulation in the context of opioid use and stress. Scientific Awards: NARSAD Young Investigator Award, Brain and Behavior Foundation NIH Pathway to Independence Award K99/R00, NIDA Dr. Daws has not publicly listed advisees, but she leads an active research laboratory and likely mentors graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. Her lab receives funding from federal and private sources, supporting ongoing projects in addiction neuroscience. She is a member of the Society for Neuroscience and maintains a strong publication record in high-impact journals. Laboratory: The Daws Lab (www.DawsLab.com) is dedicated to uncovering novel druggable targets for treating substance use disorders by studying molecular and epigenetic mechanisms in preclinical models.
Dr. Andrew Angel is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Natural and Computing Sciences at the University of Aberdeen, where he conducts interdisciplinary research at the interface of physics, mathematics, and molecular biology. He is actively involved in teaching and research, currently accepting PhD students in Physics. His primary research interests include: Mathematical and stochastic modeling of biological systems Gene expression and transcription dynamics Chromatin and nucleosome organization Epigenetic regulation, particularly in vernalization Metabolic cycling and its impact on transcription Quantitative analysis of ChIP-seq data Dr. Angel applies techniques from statistical physics and computational modeling to understand complex biological phenomena. His work spans from fundamental physical models to detailed molecular mechanisms in gene regulation. The recent publications highlight a strong focus on transcriptional regulation, chromatin dynamics, and epigenetic memory. The research combines experimental collaborations with sophisticated modeling approaches, particularly in understanding how RNA polymerase navigates nucleosomal barriers, how chromatin signatures regulate transcription, and how metabolic states influence gene expression. Several studies involve yeast and human systems, employing cutting-edge techniques like 4sU sequencing for transcriptome mapping. Dr. Angel has collaborated extensively with leading researchers including Professor Jane Mellor (University of Oxford), Professor Francois Robert (IRCM Montreal), and Dr. Michael Tellier (University of Leicester), reflecting his integrated approach to biological questions. His scientific contributions are evident through publications in high-impact journals such as Nature , Molecular Cell , Cell Reports , and PNAS . While no specific awards are listed, the quality and impact of his publications indicate significant recognition in the fields of epigenetics, transcription, and biophysical modeling. Dr. Angel advises students in Physics and related interdisciplinary areas, contributing to the training of next-generation scientists in quantitative biology. His research is supported by collaborative networks and institutional resources at the University of Aberdeen. He is affiliated with the following research groups and collaborations: Transcription, Chromatin and the Yeast Metabolic Cycle (with Prof. Jane Mellor) Transcription through nucleosomes (with Prof. Francois Robert) Analysis of ChIP-seq data (with Dr. Michael Tellier)
Joseph Wong, MD, is a Professor In Residence in the Department of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine. He specializes in infectious diseases and internal medicine, with a clinical and research focus on HIV care and viral persistence mechanisms despite antiretroviral therapy. His work aims to understand and eliminate latent HIV reservoirs in tissues. Education: B.S. and M.D. from Northwestern University; residency at McGaw Medical Center; fellowship in Infectious Diseases at UC San Diego. Current Role: Faculty member in the School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, UCSF. Dr. Wong's research interests center on HIV latency, viral reservoirs, and tissue-specific persistence of HIV. He investigates how HIV evades eradication through mechanisms in gut-associated lymphoid tissue, blood, and other anatomical compartments. His lab develops novel molecular assays to detect and quantify HIV transcription and latency, with a strong emphasis on translational applications. Recent work includes studying host gene expression in HIV-transcribing cells, latency-reversing agents, and the impact of HIV on cardiovascular outcomes such as sudden cardiac death. His publication record spans over two decades, with recent articles (2021–2024) focusing on: HIV transcriptional profiling in suppressed vs. viremic individuals Role of splice factors and epigenetic modifications in latency Development of droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) assays for SARS-CoV-2 and HIV Tissue-specific differences in reservoir dynamics Cardiac complications in HIV, including fibrosis and sudden death Impact of antiviral agents like ABX464 and romidepsin on reservoir reduction These works reflect a sustained focus on molecular virology, host-pathogen interactions, and clinical translation in HIV cure research. Scientific Awards: No specific awards mentioned in the provided text. Dr. Wong has served as Principal Investigator on multiple NIH-funded grants, including studies on HIV latency reversal, tissue reservoirs, and neurocognitive impacts in Ugandan children. He collaborates extensively with leading HIV researchers such as Steven Deeks and Satya Yukl. While no direct advisees are listed, his frequent co-authorship with junior scientists suggests a mentoring role. His lab likely involves a team focused on single-cell analysis, viral transcription, and tissue-based HIV research, although specific lab names or team structures are not detailed in the text.
Christian Tschudi is the John Rodman Paul Professor of Epidemiology at the Yale School of Public Health, within the Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases. He is also affiliated with the Yale Institute for Global Health, the Center for RNA Science and Medicine, and the Yale Combined Program in the Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS). His research is centered on the biology of trypanosomes, the causative agents of African sleeping sickness and nagana, with a focus on understanding the molecular basis of pathogen infectivity. Dr. Tschudi’s research interests span genomics, parasitic diseases, RNA interference, tropical medicine, and trypanosomiasis . His laboratory employs advanced bioinformatics and genetic techniques to dissect parasite-specific functions, particularly in RNA metabolism and gene regulation. A major focus is on the transcriptome of Trypanosoma brucei , where his team has developed high-throughput RNA-Seq protocols and generated comprehensive transcript maps at single-nucleotide resolution. This work has uncovered novel genes, regulatory RNAs, and mechanisms involved in developmental transitions and host adaptation. The recent articles highlight a strong trend in RNA biology, gene regulation, and developmental mechanisms in trypanosomes. His team investigates long non-coding RNAs, RNA modifications, RNA-binding proteins, and nuclear organization in the context of infectivity. These studies are crucial for identifying potential drug targets and understanding the basic biology of these neglected pathogens. Elected member, Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering (2020) John Rodman Paul Professorship, Yale University (2016) Fellow, American Academy of Microbiology (2014) Honorary Master of Arts Degree, Yale University (2013) Burroughs Wellcome Fund New Investigator Award in Molecular Parasitology (2000) Research Project Award in Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, MacArthur Foundation (1984) James Hudson Brown-Alexander B. Coxe Fellowship, Yale School of Medicine (1982) Pre-doctoral Fellowship, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (1981) Pre-doctoral Fellowship, Swiss National Science Foundation (1978) Dr. Tschudi has been actively involved in mentoring and scientific service. He co-directs an NIH-sponsored Global Infectious Disease Training Program (D43) in translational research on leishmaniasis and emerging infectious diseases. He has served on numerous NIH study sections, including as a member of the NIAID Board of Scientific Counselors (2011–2017), and as an ad-hoc member in 2019 and 2020. He also serves on editorial boards of journals such as mBio , PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases , and Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology . His laboratory is part of the Center for RNA Science and Medicine at Yale, reflecting his deep engagement with RNA-centric research. He collaborates extensively with experts in the field, including Dr. Serap Aksoy (Yale) on tsetse fly vector biology and Dr. Shulamit Michaeli (Bar Ilan University) on RNA modification. His work is supported by NIH grants and aims to identify candidate molecules for chemotherapy against trypanosomatid diseases.
Giorgio Dieci is a Full Professor at the University of Parma , affiliated with the Department of Chemical, Life, and Environmental Sustainability Sciences. His academic career spans decades of teaching and research in molecular biology disciplines. Biochemistry & Molecular Biology instruction (First/Second cycle degrees) Neurochemistry and Translational Biomedical Sciences Expertise in RNA biology and gene regulation Research focuses on transcriptional mechanisms , epigenetic regulation, and chromatin organization across various biological contexts: Molecular characterization of RNA:DNA triplex structures Interaction of viral proteins with chromatin remodeling complexes Role of TFIIIC in histone acetylation dynamics Non-coding RNA epigenetic control Transcription factor-DNA binding kinetics Recent publications demonstrate interdisciplinary approaches combining atomic force microscopy , chromatin remodeling , and transcriptional dynamics . Contact available via giorgio.dieci@unipr.it at Parco Area delle Scienze 23/A, Parma, Italy.
