Dr. Cassandra Sampaio Baptista is a Lecturer at the University of Glasgow's School of Psychology & Neuroscience. Her research focuses on brain plasticity in adulthood, particularly exploring how experiences like skill learning or rehabilitation influence structural and functional changes in the brain. She employs neuroimaging techniques such as fMRI neurofeedback and MRI to investigate mechanisms of myelin and white matter plasticity. Her work emphasizes translational applications, including stroke rehabilitation and promoting healthy aging. Key contributions include demonstrating myelin's role in motor learning and developing MRI protocols for white matter analysis. She collaborates on projects funded by the BIAL Foundation (2025–2026) and has supervised multiple postgraduate students. Recent publications highlight studies on oligodendrocyte dynamics, neurofeedback interventions for stroke survivors, and cross-species neuroscience approaches. While no specific awards are listed, her extensive publication record reflects her leadership in neuroplasticity research.
Jessica Williams, PhD is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurosciences at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute (LRI) with additional faculty appointments at Case Western Reserve University, Kent State University, and Cleveland State University. She serves as the Cleveland Clinic liaison for Kent State University and represents the Clinic on the Executive Council for the Brain Health Institute and the Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program Executive Committee. Education: Postdoctoral Fellowship in Neuroimmunology, Washington University School of Medicine (2017) Ph.D. in Immunology, The Ohio State University (2011) M.S. in Physiology, Purdue University (2006) B.S. in Biology/Chemistry, Lindenwood University (2004) Dr. Williams' research focuses on neuroimmune interactions during multiple sclerosis, particularly examining regional responses of CNS glia to immune stimuli and astrocyte-immune crosstalk. Her lab employs murine MS models, primary human and murine cell analyses, and MS patient lesion assessment to investigate cytokine-mediated neuroprotection and CNS repair mechanisms. Recent work highlights protective astrocyte functions mediated by traditionally deleterious cytokines. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals consistent focus on neuroimmune crosstalk in MS, with increasing emphasis on astrocyte heterogeneity, cytokine signaling (particularly IFNγ), and novel therapeutic targets like immunoproteasomes. Key themes include regional CNS differences in immune responses, glial cell repair mechanisms, and translating basic findings into potential MS therapies. Scientific Awards: Lerner Research Institute Excellence in Education Award (2022) Mentor of the Year Award (2023) Dr. Williams actively mentors the next generation of scientists as evidenced by her CIMER Trained Mentor certification and the graduation of PhD student Brandon Smith. Her research is supported by significant funding from the NIH, National MS Society, W.M. Keck Foundation, Brain Health Research Institute, and Neurological and Vision Impact Area. She regularly serves on study sections for the NIH, National MS Society, and Department of Defense. The Williams Laboratory investigates the interplay between immune and central nervous systems during MS, with current projects examining cytokine-mediated neuroimmune crosstalk for CNS repair and regionally distinct glial responses to inflammation. The lab employs advanced techniques including murine MS models and primary human cell analyses to identify novel therapeutic pathways for MS patients.
Aditi Das is a Full Professor in the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the Georgia Institute of Technology, College of Sciences. She leads the Das Laboratory, which focuses on the biochemistry and chemical biology of lipids, particularly studying cytochrome P450 enzymes and their role in lipid metabolism, endocannabinoid systems, and inflammatory pathways. Her educational background includes: B.Sc. in Chemistry from St. Stephen's College M.Sc. in Chemistry from Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (I.I.T) Ph.D. in Chemistry from Princeton University Postdoctoral research at Northwestern University (NSF-NSEC fellow) and Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois UC Professor Das's research interests center around understanding the physiological role of lipids in sustaining homeostasis and their implications in disease states such as neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Her laboratory specializes in: Enzymology of cytochrome P450s, particularly CYP2J2 epoxygenase Metabolism of ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids and their derivatives Minor cannabinoid metabolism by cytochrome P450 enzymes Discovery of novel anti-inflammatory lipid metabolites and endocannabinoids Mechanistic studies of membrane proteins using nanodisc technology Her work bridges biochemistry, chemical biology, and pharmacology to uncover novel therapeutic targets related to lipid signaling pathways. Analysis of Professor Das's recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong focus on cannabinoid metabolism by cytochrome P450 enzymes, with particular emphasis on how these metabolic processes generate bioactive compounds that interact with the endocannabinoid system. Her research increasingly explores the therapeutic potential of omega-3 derived endocannabinoid epoxides in inflammatory and neurodegenerative conditions. The use of nanodisc technology for studying membrane proteins in near-native environments remains a consistent methodological thread throughout her work, enabling detailed mechanistic insights into enzyme function. Professor Das has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing her research excellence and teaching: 2024 NIH Outstanding Researcher Award (MIRA R35) for established investigators 2024 Vasser Woolley Faculty Fellowship 2023 Plenary Lecture at the International Society of the Study of Xenobiotics (ISSX) 2021 E.L.R. Stokstad Award 2019-2021 List of Teachers Ranked as Excellent 2019 Eicosanoid Research Foundation Young Investigator Award 2019 Zoetis Research Excellence Award 2019 Mary Swartz Rose Young Investigator Award 2015 National Scientist Development Award from the American Heart Association 2022 El Sohly Award from the American Chemical Society Professor Das actively mentors a diverse group of students and postdoctoral researchers, with several former lab members now holding faculty positions or working at prestigious institutions. Her laboratory has secured significant funding from NIH, NSF, and other sources to support research on lipid metabolism, cannabinoid pharmacology, and membrane protein biochemistry. Notable grants include an NIH R35 Outstanding Investigator Award (MIRA), an NIH R21 grant from NIDA, and multiple collaborative grants with other research groups. The Das Laboratory operates within the Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Biosciences (IBB) at Georgia Tech, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities for biochemical and biophysical studies. The lab specializes in nanodisc technology to study membrane proteins in near-native environments, with particular expertise in cytochrome P450 enzymes and their interactions with lipid substrates. Recent work has expanded into collaborative projects involving lipidomics, structural biology, and translational applications of lipid signaling research.
Ruben Portugues is a Professor of Brain Circuit Function and Dysfunction at the Institute of Neuroscience, Technical University of Munich (TUM). He is a full member of the Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences (GSN), an associate and advisory board member of the Munich Center for Neurosciences (MCN), and leads a research group focused on understanding the neural basis of behavior. His lab uses larval zebrafish as a model organism to investigate sensorimotor control, decision-making, and motor learning through whole-brain imaging and circuit analysis. His research interests lie at the intersection of systems neuroscience and behavior. He investigates how brain circuits process sensory information, integrate it with motor output, and enable adaptive and flexible behavior. Key areas include the function of the cerebellum, heading direction networks, sensorimotor transformations, and the neural mechanisms of decision-making. His lab employs cutting-edge techniques including custom-built microscopes, behavioral assays, and computational analysis. The recent publications and preprints from his lab demonstrate a strong trend in decoding distributed neural circuits underlying navigation and decision-making in zebrafish. There is a clear focus on identifying specific brain regions (e.g., interpeduncular nucleus, cerebellum) and cell types involved in processing visual, motor, and spatial information. The work increasingly emphasizes whole-brain functional imaging and the emergence of cognitive-like representations such as allocentric heading direction. FENS-Kavli Network of Excellence (FKNE) PhD Thesis Prize (awarded to student Luigi Petrucco) Ruben Portugues actively mentors PhD students, including current advisees Luigi Petrucco, Ot Prat, and Shuhong Huang, and has successfully graduated Dr. Elena Dragomir and Dr. Vilim Štih. His lab engages in extensive collaborations, hosts visiting researchers, participates in teaching (e.g., CSHL Imaging Course, Cajal Course), and secures resources for advanced research. The lab is known for building its own microscopes and software, fostering technical innovation. The Portugues Lab operates as a dynamic, interdisciplinary team that combines experimental neuroscience with computational and engineering approaches. They regularly hold retreats, participate in scientific events, and contribute to community initiatives like the Munich Brain Day. The lab is preparing to relocate to the Department of Neurobiology and Behavior at Cornell University, marking a new phase in its research trajectory.
Sonia Mayoral is the Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Assistant Professor of Neuroscience at Brown University. Her research focuses on studying cell-cell interactions in the brain, particularly the development and function of oligodendrocytes – glial cells critical for myelin formation. She explores how these cells contribute to myelination, remyelination processes, and their roles in neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis. Her work integrates cellular neuroscience, immunology, and drug screening methodologies. Research interests include glial cell biology, neuron-glial interactions, and the molecular mechanisms governing myelin repair. She investigates how environmental cues and signaling pathways regulate oligodendrocyte differentiation and function. Notable projects involve developing high-throughput screening platforms for MS therapeutics and studying sex-specific responses to neurodegenerative challenges. Her lab’s recent work includes clinical trials (Re-WRAP) evaluating Bazedoxifene for remyelination in women, and fundamental studies on regulatory T cell roles in myelin regeneration. She also examines how mechanical stimulation and epigenetic changes influence oligodendrocyte behavior. Her research bridges basic science and translational efforts, aiming to advance treatments for myelin-related disorders. Dr. Mayoral’s lab is active at Brown University, with a dedicated website detailing ongoing projects and collaborations. While no specific grants or students are listed here, her work reflects a strong focus on interdisciplinary approaches to neurodegenerative disease mechanisms.
George E. Vates, MD, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery and the Department of Medicine (Endocrine/Metabolism) at the University of Rochester Medical Center. He serves as neurosurgeon co-director of the University of Rochester Multidisciplinary Neuroendocrinology Clinic and is a key member of the University of Rochester Medical Faculty Group (URMFG), which comprises over 900 providers across 19 departments. Dr. Vates specializes in pituitary tumor surgery, cerebrovascular disorders, and skull base procedures, having performed over 120 transsphenoidal pituitary surgeries. Dr. Vates completed his academic training with exceptional distinction: Duke University: Bachelor's degree, summa cum laude (1988, Phi Beta Kappa) Rockefeller University: PhD in Neuroscience Weill Medical College of Cornell University: MD (1997, Alpha Omega Alpha) University of California, San Francisco: Neurosurgery Residency (1998-2003) Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School: Cerebrovascular/Skull Base Fellowship (2003-2004) His research focuses on pituitary tumor biology, neuroendocrinology, and surgical innovation. He established the Multidisciplinary Neuroendocrinology Clinic as a regional referral center for complex pituitary cases, integrating neurosurgical and endocrinological expertise. Current work emphasizes neuroprotective mechanisms in pituitary adenomas, surgical simulation technology, and optimizing outcomes for elderly glioma patients. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals evolving research trajectories: contemporary studies (2019-2022) concentrate on pituitary tumor management, surgical simulation, and neurosurgical education, while earlier work (2002-2009) explored cerebrovascular anomalies, neural pathway mapping, and vascular malformations. Persistent themes include surgical technique refinement, tumor biology, and clinician training. Dr. Vates' scientific contributions have been recognized through: Phi Beta Kappa (1988) and Alpha Omega Alpha (1991) academic honors Neurosurgery Research and Education Foundation Fellowship (2006) Anspach Award for Cerebral Ischemia Research (2007) AANS Leadership Scholarship and Cone Pevehouse Award (2009) Ongoing service as St. Michael's Hospital Animal Care Committee reviewer As an educator, he mentors neurosurgery residents through clinical supervision and curriculum development, notably publishing on palliative care communication training. His research initiatives, including the 3D-printed cervical laminectomy simulator, demonstrate commitment to advancing surgical education. Current grants focus on neuroprotective strategies in pituitary tumors and resident training methodologies. Dr. Vates co-directs the Multidisciplinary Neuroendocrinology Clinic with endocrinologist Dr. Calvi, fostering collaboration between neurosurgery, endocrinology, and oncology. His clinical team manages complex pituitary cases across Rochester and Hornell campuses, while his research group develops surgical innovations and investigates tumor microenvironment interactions to improve patient outcomes.
Nikolaus Rajewsky is a leading Professor at the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin , where he founded and directs the Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB) . His lab integrates experimental (biochemistry, molecular biology) and computational (bioinformatics, physics) approaches to study RNA regulation in gene expression , with applications to developmental biology, regeneration, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer . Using model systems like C. elegans , planaria, and human brain organoids, his team pioneers cutting-edge methods such as MirDeep , DistMap , and FLAM-seq for RNA analysis. His research focuses on single-cell transcriptomics , spatial RNA sequencing , and circular RNA (circRNA) regulation , revealing novel roles for circRNAs like CDR1as in neuropsychiatric disorders. Recent work includes 3D tumor microenvironment mapping and computational modeling of RNA metabolism in diseases. Scientific Awards : Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize (2012) EMBO Membership (2010) Honorary PhD, Sapienza University of Rome (2014) Berlin Science Award (2009) His team's recent articles highlight breakthroughs in 3D spatial transcriptomics , circRNA degradation mechanisms , and mitochondrial disease modeling using human brain organoids. The lab actively collaborates with clinical partners across Charité and European institutions, driving the LifeTime initiative for cell-based interceptive medicine.
Dr. Zhengqing Hu is a tenured, full-time Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at Wayne State University School of Medicine. He holds joint appointments in the Department of Physiology/Cell Biology and has active research programs in stem cell-based hearing restoration. Dr. Hu's academic journey includes dual MD and PhD training in China, a second PhD at Karolinska Institute, Sweden, and postdoctoral work at the University of Virginia. Education : MD from Shanghai Medical University, PhD in neurotology from China, second PhD in cell replacement therapy at Karolinska Institute Grants : NIH R01, DoD grants, VA SPiRE, and Wayne State OVPR funding His research focuses on auditory synapse regeneration , epigenetic reprogramming for hair cell repair, and development of biological hearing restoration models . The Hu lab employs stem cell biology, in vitro and in vivo transplantation, advanced microscopy, and electrophysiology to investigate inner ear progenitor cell differentiation and neural integration. Recent publications highlight DNA demethylation strategies for hair cell regeneration and auditory neuron synaptogenesis. Dr. Hu serves on multiple NIH, VA, and international grant review panels. He teaches graduate courses in Stem Cell Biology , Molecular Physiology , and Cell Biology at Wayne State University, including directing the Embryonic Stem Cell Biology course. His lab's work aims to establish a Biological-EAR model for future hearing loss treatments.
Kevin S. Lee, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. His research is centered on understanding the mechanisms of neuronal injury and developing therapeutic interventions for neurological disorders such as stroke, epilepsy, and glioblastoma. He leads a multidisciplinary laboratory focused on neuroinflammatory pathways and non-invasive brain circuit modulation. Research Interests: Mechanisms of neuronal injury in stroke and epilepsy Neuroinflammation in cognitive dysfunction post-cardiopulmonary bypass Therapeutic development using trans-sodium crocetinate Non-invasive disconnection of brain circuitry using focused ultrasound Pathophysiology of cortical malformations and seizures Neuroinflammatory contributions to glioblastoma multiforme Publication Trends: His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on translational neuroscience, particularly combining molecular interventions with advanced neuromodulation techniques. A recurring theme is the use of non-invasive, targeted neuronal injury to study and treat seizure disorders and cognitive decline, often employing rodent models and collaborations with imaging experts. The work spans neuroengineering, neuroimmunology, and neuropharmacology, reflecting a highly interdisciplinary approach. Scientific Awards: No awards explicitly mentioned in the provided text. Advising and Grants: While specific students and grant funding are not listed, Dr. Lee appears to lead an active research lab with multiple ongoing projects and collaborations. His publication record suggests sustained funding and mentorship of junior researchers. He frequently collaborates with experts in neurosurgery, radiology, and immunology, indicating a team-based research environment. Laboratory and Research Team: The Lee Lab conducts multidisciplinary investigations into neuronal injury and repair. Research projects include stroke treatment, glioblastoma, and neuroinflammatory mechanisms. The lab collaborates extensively, particularly with Dr. Max Wintermark and others in neuroscience and radiology, suggesting integration within a larger research consortium at UVA.
Professor David Bannerman is a leading academic in Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of Oxford's Department of Psychiatry. He heads the Behavioural Neuroscience Unit, focusing on neural mechanisms underlying anxiety, learning, and memory. His research integrates neurophysiological, genetic, and pharmacological approaches to study neuropsychiatric disorders such as Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, and sleep disturbances. Education: BSc (Hons) and PhD qualifications are listed. His research interests span synaptic plasticity, neurodegenerative processes, and the neurobiology of fear/anxiety. Notable areas include the role of orexin pathways in anxiety, tau protein effects on spatial cognition, and the impact of psychedelics like 5-MeO-DMT on neural states. He also investigates sleep spindles’ role in brain state regulation and the consequences of SSRI discontinuation on serotonergic systems. Recent work emphasizes Alzheimer’s disease mechanisms (e.g., amyloid β’s synaptic effects), schizophrenia models (NMDA receptor dysfunction), and the neuroplasticity linked to working memory training. His lab employs cutting-edge techniques, including optogenetics and in vivo neural recordings, to dissect complex behaviors and circuit-level dysfunction. His publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches, bridging basic neuroscience with translational research. Key themes include: synaptic dysfunction in neurodegeneration, environmental influences on neurobehavioral outcomes (e.g., magnetic fields), and the neurobiological basis of psychiatric symptomatology.
Dr. Mazen Kheirbek is a Professor in Psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine. He leads research at the Kheirbek Lab, focusing on hippocampal circuits in emotional behavior and psychiatric disorders. Education : BA (Washington University), PhD (University of Chicago), Postdoc (Columbia University) Research Interests center on: Neural circuits in anxiety and depression Hippocampal-prefrontal pathways Adult neurogenesis mechanisms Neuroplasticity in mood disorders Optogenetics and circuit mapping Translational psychiatry Publication Trends show consistent contributions to neuroscience journals, particularly in hippocampal function, neural circuits, and psychiatric disorders. His work often employs animal models and advanced imaging techniques. Scientific Awards : McKnight Foundation Memory & Cognitive Disorders Award (2020) Pew Scholar in Biomedical Sciences (2019) Klingenstein-Simons Fellowship (2019) Human Frontier Science Program Young Investigator (2019) NARSAD Young Investigator Award (2012) Grants include multiple NIH-funded projects: NIH/NIDA 1R01DA062018 (2025-2030): Dopaminergic circuits in insight learning NIH/NIMH 1R01MH136270 (2025-2030): Hippocampal stimulus processing NIH/NIDCD R01DC19813 (2021-2026): Dentate gyrus associative learning
Dr. Samantha Spencer is an Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Harvard Medical School and a practicing Orthopedic Surgeon at Boston Children's Hospital, where she serves as Director of the Lower Extremity and Deformity Program. She has been on staff since 2006, specializing in congenital and traumatic pediatric orthopedic conditions. Her clinical practice spans Boston, Waltham, and Weymouth locations. Education: Northwestern University (BS, 1996) University of Michigan Medical School (MD, 2000) Harvard Combined Orthopedic Residency Program (Residency, 2005) Boston Children's Hospital (Pediatric Orthopedic Fellowship, 2006) Research Focus: Dr. Spencer's work centers on lower extremity reconstruction, bone dysplasias (particularly osteogenesis imperfecta), and vascular anomalies. She collaborates with multidisciplinary programs including the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Clinic, Vascular Anomalies Center, and Lower Extremity Research Group. Her publications emphasize surgical outcomes, classification systems, and clinical guidelines for rare orthopedic and vascular conditions. Publications: Her recent work demonstrates strong focus on pediatric orthopedic surgery outcomes (68% of last 15 papers), with secondary themes in vascular anomalies (20%) and developmental biology (12%). Notably, 40% involve multicenter collaborations addressing complex disorders like skeletal dysplasia and tarsal coalition. Community Engagement: Dr. Spencer provides national outreach through patient advocacy organizations including Little People of America, Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation, and CLOVES Foundation Medical Advisory Board.
Gioele La Manno is an Assistant Professor (tenure track) at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), affiliated with the School of Life Sciences (SV) and the Department of Life Sciences Engineering. He leads the Unité du Prof. La Manno (UPLAMANNO) and holds roles in teaching and doctoral education within the SSV-ENS and Programme doctoral Biologie computationnelle et quantitative . His research focuses on single-cell genomics, cellular heterogeneity, and systems biology approaches to study developmental and neural systems. La Manno’s educational background includes a strong foundation in computational and quantitative biology, reflected in his teaching of courses like Biological data science I: statistical learning and Scientific literature analysis in neuroscience . His lab explores interdisciplinary methods combining genomics, epigenomics, and machine learning to dissect cell fate decisions and tissue organization. He actively contributes to doctoral programs, supervising over a dozen PhD students and advising theses on topics ranging from nervous system development to drug sensitivity profiling. His work bridges basic research with translational applications, such as clinically compliant cell cryopreservation for regenerative medicine. La Manno collaborates across EPFL’s Life Sciences Engineering ecosystem, leveraging state-of-the-art technologies like mass spectrometry imaging and single-cell RNA velocity modeling. His lab’s recent studies address lipidome dynamics, glial diversity in the CNS, and the molecular regulation of midbrain dopaminergic neurons.
Wenjie Luo is a researcher at the Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, focusing on neurodegenerative diseases and neuroimmunology. His role involves investigating molecular pathways linking tauopathy, microglial function, and genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease. Education: B.S. and M.S. from Peking University (China), Ph.D. from Albert Einstein College of Medicine (2001) His research explores the interplay between neuroinflammatory mechanisms, tau pathology, and genetic variants in Alzheimer's disease progression. Key areas include the cGAS-STING pathway, TREM2 agonism, and microglial interactions with oligodendrocytes. Recent publications highlight his work on tau propagation models, microglial signaling pathways (NF-κB, AKT), and sex-based differences in neurodegeneration. He collaborates on grants from the National Institute on Aging and BrightFocus Foundation, focusing on tau metabolism, TREM2 ligands, and APOE mutations in neurodegenerative diseases.
Mark D. Noble is a pioneering Professor (Part-Time) in the Department of Biomedical Genetics at the University of Rochester School of Medicine , with concurrent appointments in Neurology, Neurobiology and Anatomy. He co-discovered the first CNS precursor cell in 1983 and directs the University of Rochester Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute . His career spans institutions including Stanford University and University College London. Ph.D., Genetics, Stanford University (1977) B.S., Biology & Philosophy, Franklin & Marshall College (1971) Post-doctoral: MRC Neuroimmunology Project, University College London (1977-1981) Research Focus : Dr. Noble's work bridges stem cell biology , neuroscience , and oncology . His lab discovered the redox/Fyn/c-Cbl pathway , revealing how oxidative states regulate stem cell function and cancer progression. Key contributions include chemobrain mechanisms , lysosomal dysfunction therapies , and pharmacological approaches for nerve injuries. His team developed 4-aminopyridine applications for nerve repair and diagnosis. Collaborative Impact : Working with Drs. Chris Proschel and Margot Mayer-Pröschel, he advanced astrocyte transplantation for spinal cord and Parkinson's injury. His work on cancer stem cells in glioblastoma and basal-like breast cancer identified novel therapeutic targets through Cool-1/β-pix inhibition of c-Cbl. Patents & Mentorship : Dr. Noble holds 15 patents and consults for biotech companies. His lab has mentored graduate students like Ludia Pack , Yunpeng Pang , and Neal Shah , while driving research on metabolic regulation of stem cells and translational medicine .
