Jimmy Zhou is a Professor at Yale University School of Medicine, with joint appointments in the Departments of Cellular and Molecular Physiology and Neuroscience. His research focuses on retinal neurobiology, investigating synaptic circuits, neurotransmitter systems, and developmental mechanisms in visual processing. PhD, University of Houston (1989) MSc, University of Houston (1984) BS, Fudan University (1982) Dr. Zhou's work spans retinal physiology, direction selectivity in starburst amacrine cells, contrast processing, and the role of vGluT3 amacrine cells in retinal circuits. He explores how spontaneous retinal activity shapes visual map development and contributes to retinal degeneration models. His recent publications (2015-2023) highlight vGluT3 amacrine cell circuits, retinal wave dynamics, optogenetic techniques, and cone-rich retinal organoids. Key themes include neurotransmitter co-release, synaptic integration, and retinal disease modeling. Dr. Zhou leads research supported by NIH grants (e.g., Vision Core Grant renewal in 2022) and mentors through Yale's academic programs. His lab investigates retinal networks at the intersection of neuroscience and biomedical data science.
Jeremiah Lim is a Senior Lecturer at the School of Allied Health within the Department of Optometry and Vision Science at The University of Western Australia. He holds a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Melbourne, specializing in Alzheimer’s disease ocular phenotypes, and has additional qualifications in optometry and education. His research focuses on neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s/Parkinson’s), retinal imaging , and biomarkers , with particular emphasis on translating ocular findings to broader neurological insights. Key projects include retinal hyperspectral imaging in disease models and improving eye health literacy in disadvantaged communities. Recent work emphasizes mouse models for studying neurodegeneration, electrophysiology , and gene therapy applications. Lim has authored over 25 peer-reviewed articles, with notable contributions to retinal biomarker development and clinical optometry practices. Awards: Alexander-Guelma Clinical Fellow in Neuroscience (2019), Eberhard Dodt Memorial Award (2016) Grants: Perth Eye Foundation (2024–2027), Diabetes Research Foundation of WA (2024–2025) His interdisciplinary approach bridges optometry, neuroscience, and clinical practice, aiming to advance early disease detection and patient care strategies.
Michelle A. Whaley is a Teaching Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Notre Dame, where she has been an influential educator and researcher since 1993. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame and a B.S. from Scripps College. Her roles include faculty coordinator of the Undergraduate Research program and the Alumni Mentor program, and she previously served as Assistant Department Chair (2014–2019) and REU Program Director (1999–present). Teaching Professor, University of Notre Dame (2011–Present) Associate Teaching Professor (2001–2011) Assistant Teaching Professor (1993–2000) Ph.D., University of Notre Dame B.S., Scripps College Her research centers on the cellular and molecular basis of vision in mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Anopheles gambiae , focusing on rhodopsin regulation, gene expression, and light-evoked behaviors. She uses transgenic Drosophila models to study mosquito genes and collaborates extensively with Dr. Joseph O'Tousa. Her work bridges genetics, neuroscience, and infectious disease research, with strong emphasis on undergraduate involvement. The recent publications (2012–2022) reflect a sustained focus on visual gene function in mosquitoes, especially rhodopsin dynamics and light-mediated behavior. These studies combine molecular biology, genetics, and neuroethology, contributing to broader efforts in vector-borne disease control. Her educational scholarship includes curriculum reform in introductory biology, promoting inquiry-based and research-integrated learning. Her scientific honors include: Indiana Professor of the Year (2014) Edmund P. Joyce, CSC, Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching (2014) Arthur Quigley, PhD Award for community service and education (2012) Michelle Whaley is deeply committed to student mentorship, having advised numerous undergraduate researchers and directed the REU program for over two decades. She teaches research-intensive courses such as the CRISPR Research Experience and Classical and Molecular Genetics Laboratory, and she leads the Graduate Student Teaching Apprenticeship Program. Her educational leadership extends to curriculum development, including co-chairing the committee to reimagine introductory biology and serving as Faculty Fellow at the Institute for Educational Initiatives. She is actively involved in several educational and research teams, including the Jordan Research Teams and the Molecules to Ecosystems introductory biology initiative, fostering collaborative, interdisciplinary learning environments.
Jean-François Bouchard is a Professor at the School of Optometry , University of Montreal , where he serves as Director. His research focuses on the role of endocannabinoids in synaptogenesis and visual system plasticity, with applications to neurodegenerative diseases and retinal disorders. Education : B.Pharm. (1994) and Ph.D. in Biochemistry/Pharmacology (2000) from University of Montreal; Postdoctoral fellowship at Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University (2004). Research interests include: Mechanisms of synaptogenesis in the central nervous system Endocannabinoid system in retinal and visual brain function Development of therapeutic agents for congenital/traumatic neurological damage 3D imaging platforms for visual system analysis Impact of cannabis exposure on neurodevelopment Advising and grants : Supervised 18 graduate theses (2009–2024) in areas like GPR55 receptor function, retinal degeneration, and intraocular drug delivery Principal investigator for major grants from CIHR , NSERC , FQRNT , and Stem Cell Network (2005–2027), including projects on: GPR91/99 roles in CNS development (2020–2027) Delta9-THC effects on fetal neurodevelopment (2022–2026) Photoreceptor transplantation for retinal diseases (2020–2022) Labs and teams : Executive Director of GRSV (Vision Research Group) Director of Laboratoire Neuropharmacologie Member of interdisciplinary networks: CIRCA , RRSV , SNC , and GRUM
Andrew Dick is the Duke Elder Chair & Director of the Institute of Ophthalmology at University College London (UCL), and concurrently serves as Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Bristol. He also co-directs the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL-Institute of Ophthalmology. His medical training includes an MBBS and BSc (Hons) in Biochemistry from the University of London, followed by an MD from the University of Aberdeen. Research Focus Professor Dick's research centers on ocular immunology and inflammatory diseases, with seminal work on TNF-alpha's role in retinal inflammation and degeneration. His lab investigates macrophage plasticity, immune regulation (CD200R, C5aR, IRAK-M pathways), and develops biologic therapies for blinding diseases. His bench-to-bedside approach has revolutionized anti-TNF treatments for uveitis. Publication Trends Recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate strong emphasis on: 1) Multimodal imaging guidelines for uveitis syndromes, 2) Genetic and machine learning approaches to retinal phenotyping, 3) Novel therapeutics including gene therapies and JAK inhibitors, and 4) Mechanisms of retinal degeneration involving Bruch's membrane and autophagy pathways. Awards and Honors Fellow of Academy of Medical Sciences (2007) Alcon Research Institute Award (2011) Doyne Medal & Lecture Duke-Elder Lecture Constable Annual Public Lecture Certificate of Excellence (EVER) Golding Medal & Llewellyn Scholarship Professional Leadership Professor Dick has authored foundational textbooks (e.g., The Eye: Basic Science in Practice ), chaired WHO uveitis classification committees, served as ARVO Vice-President and EVER President, and held editorial roles for major ophthalmology journals including Progress in Retinal and Eye Research .
Omar Mahroo is Professor of Retinal Neuroscience at University College London's Institute of Ophthalmology, and a consultant ophthalmologist at Moorfields Eye Hospital and St Thomas' Hospital. He specializes in inherited retinal diseases and leads the Moorfields Electrophysiology Service. He holds honorary appointments at King's College London and Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia. Education includes: MB/PhD from University of Cambridge (2004) MA Cantab (2003) BA (Hons) from University of Cambridge (1999) Fellowship of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (2012) Post-Graduate Certificate in Academic Practice from King's College London (2013) His research focuses on human retinal function using in vivo electrophysiology, retinal imaging, genetic investigation, and machine learning. Key areas include inherited retinal disease mechanisms, myopia development linked to retinal signaling, and neurological disease biomarkers. Research is funded by Wellcome Trust (£1.1M), Moorfields Eye Charity, Fight for Sight, Retina UK, and NIHR BRC. Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate strong focus on: Genetic characterization of retinal disorders Advanced imaging and AI-based phenotyping Electrophysiological standardization Population-specific variant analysis Multimodal diagnostic approaches Scientific awards include: Michael Sanders Award Lecture (2024) Fellowship of Royal Society of Biology (2023) Fellowship of Physiological Society (2023) Rising Star of the Year (2019) Wellcome Clinical Research Fellowship (2017-2022) Supervises doctoral candidates and research scientists in retinal neuroscience. Current lab members include Dr. Mark Simcoe (genetic epidemiology), Dr. Jim Bellingham (genetics of IRDs), and Dr. Sophie Glinton (AI/electrophysiology). Directs the Moorfields Macula Course and teaches in UCL's Visual Neuroscience module.
Dr. Simone Mortal is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO), part of the SLN - Team Loza research group. They hold a PhD in Neurobiology from the International School for Advanced Studies (Italy). Their work focuses on advanced imaging techniques and cellular neurobiology, with specialties in super-resolution imaging, multiphoton microscopy, and confocal microscopy. Research interests include mechanisms of glioblastoma replication, neuronal mechanotransduction, microtubule dynamics in neurodegenerative diseases, and cytoskeletal roles in neuronal development. Dr. Mortal's research bridges biophysics and neuroscience, addressing fundamental questions about cellular signaling and disease mechanisms. They are based in Barcelona, Spain, and can be reached at Simone.Mortal@icfo.eu. Education: PhD in Neurobiology (International School for Advanced Studies, Italy). Research Themes: Investigating calcium signaling in neurodegeneration, mechanosensitive pathways in neurons, and actin dynamics during neuronal maturation. Their studies employ cutting-edge microscopy techniques to visualize cellular processes at high resolution, with a focus on glioma-derived exosome effects, growth cone mechanics, and cytoskeletal scaffolding in neural development. Labs/Teams: Active member of the SLN - Team Loza group at ICFO, specializing in neurobiophotonics and cellular imaging.
Ullas Pedmale is an Associate Professor at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL), leading the Pedmale Lab. His research focuses on understanding how environmental cues, such as light and temperature, modulate plant growth and development. This work has significant implications for agriculture and climate resilience. Pedmale earned his Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from the University of Missouri (2008) and completed postdoctoral training at the Salk Institute under Joanne Chory. He is also an Adjunct Faculty Member at Stony Brook University. His research interests include plant-environment interactions, light signaling pathways, and the molecular mechanisms underlying plant adaptation. Key projects involve studying shade avoidance responses, DNA damage repair in plants, and the role of histone modifications in flowering time regulation. Pedmale’s lab utilizes advanced technologies like state-of-the-art growth chambers to simulate climate change effects on plants. Notable achievements include the NIH Outstanding Investigator Award (2017) and recognition for groundbreaking work on plant photoreceptors. His recent publications highlight discoveries in RNA methylation, ubiquitin regulation, and epigenetic mechanisms controlling plant growth. Pedmale has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, fostering a collaborative environment focused on advancing plant science. Lab activities emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, combining genetics, molecular biology, and computational tools. Current projects explore how plants integrate light and temperature signals to optimize resource allocation, with potential applications in crop improvement. The lab’s innovations, such as rapid protein expression in tobacco for pandemic response, demonstrate versatility in addressing global challenges.
Prof. Dr. Tobias Moser is a Professor of Auditory Neuroscience and Director of the Institute for Auditory Neuroscience at the University Medical Center Göttingen. He leads the InnerEarLab and holds roles as spokesperson for the Multiscale BioImaging Cluster of Excellence (MBExC) and the Else Kröner Fresenius Center for Optogenetic Therapies. His work integrates molecular, physiological, and clinical approaches to auditory research. Education: MD from the University of Jena (1995), followed by postdoctoral work at the Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry. He has held leadership positions at multiple Max Planck Institutes and the German Primate Center (DPZ). Research Interests: Molecular anatomy and physiology of auditory synapses, synaptic pathophysiology, optogenetic therapies for hearing restoration, and gene replacement therapy. His group combines patch-clamp electrophysiology, super-resolution microscopy (e.g., 3D-MINFLUX), and biophysical modeling to study sound encoding and synaptic dysfunction. Recent Work Trends: Focus on hair cell ribbon synapse mechanisms, optogenetic cochlear implants, and the molecular basis of auditory synaptopathy. Collaborations include the Stefan Hell lab for nanoscale imaging and Fred Wolf’s theoretical neurophysics group. Grants & Labs: Funded by DFG (SFB 889/1690), Max Planck Society, and EU initiatives. Affiliated with labs at DPZ and the MPI for Multidisciplinary Sciences. Active in training through IMPRS programs in Neurosciences and Molecular Medicine.
Ove Hoegh-Guldberg is a Professor at James Cook University specializing in coral reef ecology and climate change impacts. His research focuses on coral symbiosis, bleaching mechanisms, and the resilience of marine ecosystems under global environmental pressures. Key research interests include coral reef biodiversity, ocean acidification, and the development of conservation strategies for tropical marine environments. He has contributed to high-impact studies on coral reef vulnerability, mesophotic coral ecosystems, and the application of artificial intelligence for reef monitoring. His work integrates molecular, ecological, and policy perspectives, addressing challenges such as coral bleaching, cyclone damage, and the adaptation of fisheries to climate change. Collaborations span institutions globally, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to marine conservation.
Geraint Rees is Vice-Provost (Research, Innovation and Global Engagement) at University College London (UCL), where he previously served as Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences. His academic appointments include Professor of Cognitive Neurology and Director of the UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience. His research focuses on understanding human cognition through advanced neuroimaging and machine learning techniques. Education: Doctor of Philosophy, University College London (1999) Master of Arts, University of Cambridge (1999) Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery, University of Oxford (1991) Bachelor of Arts, University of Cambridge (1988) Dr. Rees leads interdisciplinary research in cognitive neuroscience, investigating neural mechanisms of perception and decision-making using functional MRI and computational approaches. His work bridges clinical neurology with artificial intelligence to understand brain disorders. Research emphases include neuroplasticity, neurodegeneration biomarkers, and machine learning applications in healthcare. Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate strong research trends in computational neuroscience with applications to neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Huntington's and Alzheimer's. Key patterns include advanced neuroimaging techniques (7T MRI, fMRI), transformer-based deep learning models, and investigations into neuroplasticity and sensory system adaptations. Dr. Rees has extensive leadership experience in large-scale research initiatives, serving on the Executive Management Team of the Francis Crick Institute and as Non-Executive Director for UCL Business. He maintains active research collaborations with Google DeepMind and develops doctoral training programs.
William H. Merigan, Ph.D., is a Professor at the University of Rochester with joint appointments in the Department of Ophthalmology (SMD), Department of Brain/Cognitive Sciences, and the Center for Visual Science. His research focuses on retinal ganglion cells' role in visual perception in primates, leveraging advanced imaging techniques like adaptive optics. He leads the Merigan Lab, part of the Advanced Retinal Imaging Alliance (ARIA), collaborating across disciplines to study retinal structure and function. Education: PhD in Psychology (1975, University of Maryland), MS (1972), and BA (1967, Boston College). His work integrates neurobiology, optics, and clinical science to investigate primate vision mechanisms, including optogenetic therapy, retinal degeneration, and photoreceptor transplantation. Research Interests: Retinal ganglion cell physiology, primate visual perception, adaptive optics imaging, retinal regeneration, and therapeutic interventions for vision loss. His lab pioneers techniques like in vivo calcium imaging and single-cell resolution imaging to study retinal activity and neural circuitry. Publications Highlight Trends: Recent work emphasizes optogenetic therapy, foveal ganglion cell tuning, and cellular-resolution imaging of transplanted photoreceptors. Studies span from basic retinal physiology to translational applications in vision restoration. Labs/Teams: Director of the Merigan Lab and a Principal Investigator in ARIA, fostering collaborations across the Flaum Eye Institute, Center for Visual Science, and Institute of Optics at the University of Rochester.
Patricia Boya is a Full Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Fribourg, within the Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Medicine. She is a leading researcher in autophagy, mitophagy, and lysosomal biology, with a focus on retinal and neurodegenerative diseases. Her research interests center on the molecular mechanisms of autophagy and mitophagy, particularly their roles in retinal health, aging, neurodegeneration, and cell death. She investigates how mitochondrial dynamics, lysosomal function, and autophagic flux contribute to diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa, glaucoma, ALS, and Parkinson’s. Her work combines molecular biology, cell imaging, and preclinical models to uncover therapeutic targets. The analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on mitophagy regulation, neuroinflammation (especially via the cGAS/STING pathway), and the development of neuroprotective compounds. She has contributed to high-impact reviews and guidelines in autophagy research, and her work spans fundamental mechanisms to translational applications. She is actively involved in scientific leadership, including the "Women in Autophagy" initiative to promote gender equity in science and the "DRIVE" international PhD training program in autophagy. Dr. Boya has published over 150 articles in top journals including Nature , Nature Communications , Autophagy , and Cell Death & Disease . Her work is highly collaborative, involving interdisciplinary teams across Europe. She leads a research group focused on cellular recycling mechanisms and their implications for vision and aging, contributing significantly to the understanding of autophagy in health and disease.
Battaglia Parodi Maurizio is an Associate Professor at Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, specializing in Ophthalmology (MED/30 - MEDS-17/A). His research focuses on medical retina, with expertise in age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusions, degenerative myopia, and dystrophies. He has authored 222 publications in PubMed/Scopus and 3 books, and serves as a Principal Investigator in international clinical trials. Education: MD (summa cum laude) from University of Genoa (1986), Ophthalmology specialization (summa cum laude) from University of Trieste (1990) His work leverages multimodal retinal imaging to analyze retinal pathologies, including Müller cell dynamics, photoreceptor integrity in inflammatory diseases, and genotype-phenotype correlations in genetic retinopathies. Recent publications highlight advancements in neurovisual rehabilitation and imaging biomarkers for retinal diseases. Scientific contributions include the Premio Progetto Ricerca Scientifica SOI (2017) and Fellowship from the European Board of Ophthalmology (since 2016). He also directs the European Ophthalmic Review (since 2016) and chairs the Fellowships Section at the European School for Advanced Study in Ophthalmology.
Dr. Ashley Wood is a Senior Lecturer and Director of Learning and Teaching at the School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University. An experienced optometrist and Cardiff graduate, Dr. Wood has been with the institution since 2012, contributing significantly to both research and teaching in the field of vision sciences. Dr. Wood's educational background includes a BSc in Optometry & Vision Science (2003-2006) and a PhD in "Retinal structure and function in Age-related Maculopathy" (2007-2011), both from Cardiff University. Professional credentials include Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), Accreditation for Eye Health Examination Wales (EHEW), and registration as an Optometrist with the General Optical Council (GOC: 01-32560). Research interests focus primarily on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss in the EU/UK. Dr. Wood employs objective assessment methods including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), ocular electrophysiology, and retinal imaging densitometry. Current work involves using a prototype long wavelength OCT device that enables visualization of the choroid, a layer of blood vessels beneath the retina not visible with standard OCT devices. This technology also allows retinal imaging under dark-adapted conditions, facilitating studies of physiological and pathological changes in the dark-adapted eye. Dr. Wood has secured significant research funding including a Macular Society PhD Studentship (£99,858), AltRegen Ltd. Clinical Trial (£1.2M), and multiple studentships from the College of Optometrists and Abbeyfield Research Foundation. Current research projects focus on improving AMD detection and monitoring to ultimately support better treatments and prevent vision loss. Scientific contributions include numerous publications on AMD detection, OCT imaging, and electrophysiological assessment. Key awards and recognitions include multiple CUROP Summer Studentships, Abbeyfield Research Foundation PhD Studentship, and ISCEV Travel Award. Teaching responsibilities are extensive, including leadership of the Investigative Optometry and Case Studies module (OP3206) and Abnormal Ocular Conditions module (OP3104). Dr. Wood also delivers color vision lectures, supports clinical sessions, and supervises research projects. International teaching experience includes collaboration with HU University of Applied Sciences in Utrecht, Netherlands for the "Eye Care and Diabetes; the Bigger Picture" summer school. Administrative roles include serving as Director of Learning and Teaching, Exams Liaison Officer, and chairing the Student-Staff Panel. Dr. Wood currently supervises multiple postgraduate students working on AMD-related research projects.
