Peter Brodersen is a Professor at the Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen , specializing in Bioinformatics and RNA Biology . His research focuses on RNA modification (m6A), YTHDF proteins, and small RNA pathways in plants. Recent research trends from his group include: (1) molecular mechanisms of ARGONAUTE-small RNA interactions, (2) m6A-YTHDF regulatory systems in plant development, and (3) RNAi-independent roles of DICER-LIKE proteins in antiviral defense. Collaborations span Denmark and international institutions. Publications highlight cross-disciplinary work bridging computational biology and experimental plant genetics. Key subfields include RNA structure, epigenetic regulation, and antiviral immunity.
Britt Adamson is an Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular Biology and the Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics at Princeton University, where she serves as Director of the Undergraduate Program in Quantitative and Computational Biology. Her lab investigates molecular networks in human cells with focus on stress response mechanisms and genome editing technologies. She received her B.S. in Biology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2005) and Ph.D. in Genetics and Genomics from Harvard University (2012), followed by postdoctoral training at UCSF under Jonathan Weissman supported by a Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation Fellowship. Adamson's research centers on how cells organize stress response networks during DNA damage and endoplasmic reticulum stress, developing CRISPR-based functional genomics and single-cell sequencing tools to map molecular behaviors. Her work bridges fundamental cell biology with therapeutic applications in genome editing. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals dominant themes in precision genome editing (prime/base editing optimization) and systematic dissection of DNA repair pathways through combinatorial CRISPR screening. Her lab consistently integrates computational approaches with high-resolution experimental techniques to uncover context-dependent cellular behaviors. Her scientific recognitions include: Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship Princeton IP Accelerator Award (2025) STAT Who to Know: 10 Scientists leading a new generation of gene editors (2024) Adamson actively mentors eight graduate students (including alumni Ann Cirincione and Jun Hussmann) and two postdocs, with research funded through institutional awards and collaborative grants. Her lab's technological developments have enabled projects spanning virology, immunology, and developmental biology. The Adamson Lab operates within Princeton's Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, fostering an interdisciplinary environment that merges cell biology, genomics, and computational science. Current projects focus on improving prime editing efficiency and understanding stress response adaptation in disease contexts.
Michele Klingbeil is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she leads the Klingbeil DNA Replication Laboratory. She received her PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Toledo in 1996 and previously worked at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine before moving to UMass in July 2007. Her educational background includes: PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Toledo, 1996 Dr. Klingbeil's research focuses on the unique biology of trypanosomatid parasites, particularly Trypanosoma brucei , the causative agent of African sleeping sickness. Her laboratory investigates two main areas: (1) replication of the unusual mitochondrial DNA network called kinetoplast DNA (kDNA), and (2) nuclear DNA replication initiation. Her work on kDNA is particularly significant as this structure is essential for parasite survival but has no counterpart in mammalian hosts, making it an attractive drug target. She employs a combination of reverse genetics (RNAi), cell biology, and biochemistry to understand the replication and repair mechanisms of kDNA, with a special focus on a family of four DNA polymerases related to bacterial Pol I. Dr. Klingbeil's recent publications reveal her laboratory's deep investigation into mitochondrial DNA polymerases in trypanosomatids, with discoveries showing multiple polymerases having specialized functions in kDNA replication and repair. Her research has established that several of these polymerases are essential for parasite viability, opening new avenues for drug development. She has also made significant contributions to understanding the simplified Origin Recognition Complex in trypanosomatids compared to other eukaryotes. Dr. Klingbeil has received the Thomas G. Lessie Distinguished Lectureship Award for her impact on teaching at the graduate level. Her research is funded by the National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Joeph P. Healey Endowment, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She has mentored numerous graduate and undergraduate students, including current PhD candidates Dave Bruhn, Jeniffer Concepción, and Juemin Luo, as well as visiting scholar Eva Vidal Rico. Her former students have gone on to positions at institutions including Dana Farber/Broad Institute, Regis College, and Flagship Ventures. The laboratory regularly participates in scientific conferences including the Molecular Parasitology Meeting at Woods Hole and the Kinetoplastid Molecular Cell Biology conference. Dr. Klingbeil teaches several courses including Parasitology (MICRO 590S), Parasitology Lab (MICRO 590L), Molecular Mechanisms of Pathogenesis (MICRO 797P), Advanced Cell Biology (MCB 641), and Writing in Microbiology (MICRO 360). Her laboratory organizes regular social events including pumpkin carving parties and outings to Six Flags New England and Mt. Sugarloaf.
Darryl Overby is a Professor of Mechanobiology in the Department of Bioengineering at Imperial College London's Faculty of Engineering. His academic affiliations include the CRUK Convergence Science Centre, Cancer Technology Network, and multiple interdisciplinary networks focused on ocular biomechanics, vascular science, and regenerative medicine. He holds an Orcid identifier (0000-0001-9894-7515) and was previously affiliated with Tulane University and Harvard Medical School. Education: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (2002) from MIT under Prof. Roger Kamm, followed by postdoctoral research at Harvard Medical School under Prof. Donald Ingber. His work focuses on cellular biomechanics, mechanotransduction, and the role of mechanical forces in intraocular pressure regulation and glaucoma pathophysiology. Research interests span mechanobiology of Schlemm’s canal endothelial cells, nitric oxide signaling in ocular tissues, and development of organ-on-chip models for studying aqueous humor outflow dynamics. His lab explores how mechanical signals drive transcellular pore formation and how these mechanisms fail in glaucomatous conditions. Key contributions include consensus guidelines for Brillouin microscopy measurements, ex vivo perfusion studies, and the role of TRPV4 channels in mechanosensing. His work integrates engineering techniques with clinical ophthalmology to advance therapies targeting glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Professional activities include leadership roles in the Ocular Biomechanics Network and Wound Healing and Regeneration Network. His research has led to patents for devices enhancing aqueous humor drainage and RNAi-based therapies.
Jeppe Lund Nielsen is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Life Sciences at the Faculty of Engineering and Science, Aalborg University, Denmark. His research lies at the intersection of microbial ecology, genomics, and environmental biotechnology, with a strong focus on sustainable solutions for wastewater treatment, anaerobic digestion, and environmental monitoring. His primary research interests include Microbial Ecology, Functional Ecology, Genomics, Molecular and Technical Microbiology, Anaerobic Digestion, Metagenomics, and eDNA Metabarcoding . He applies molecular tools to understand microbial community dynamics in engineered and natural systems, particularly in wastewater and marine environments. His work contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals related to clean water, sustainable cities, and climate action. The recent publication trends reflect a strong emphasis on environmental applications of microbiome science, including nitrogen cycling in wastewater, bioaerosol exposure in workers, eDNA-based biodiversity monitoring, and valorization of waste streams through biotechnology. His articles frequently appear in high-impact environmental and microbiological journals and demonstrate interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, ecology, and public health. Among his notable scientific contributions are leadership roles in significant research projects such as the AAU Bubble Project (Power2Proteins), JAMBO seabed impact study, and investigations into biotechnological pesticides. He has also contributed to public discourse through media engagement on topics like pesticide regulation and environmental innovation. Professor Nielsen has supervised PhD students, including M. Eskeldsen, and is actively involved in grants and collaborative research across Europe. He is a key member of research teams focused on environmental microbiology, wastewater biotechnology, and marine impact assessments. His lab integrates molecular biology, bioinformatics, and environmental engineering to address pressing sustainability challenges.
Ana Maria Velez is an Associate Professor at the Department of Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her research focuses on insect responses to chemical stressors, particularly RNA interference (RNAi) and Bt toxins for pest management. With a 80% research and 20% teaching appointment, she leads the Insect Toxicology Lab and teaches courses like 'Toxins in the Environment' and 'Insecticide Toxicology.' Education: Ph.D. in Entomology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2013 M.S. in Entomology, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, 2009 B.S. in Biology, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia, 2006 Her research spans molecular, organismal, and population levels to evaluate transgenic crops and RNAi technologies. Key areas include resistance mechanisms, non-target effects, and risk assessment frameworks. She has extensive publications on western corn rootworm and fall armyworm, emphasizing sustainable pest control. Her work also addresses sublethal impacts on non-target species like monarch butterflies and honeybees. Recent articles highlight RNAi delivery optimization, Bt resistance dynamics, and ecological impacts of insecticides. Her lab collaborates on patents for RNAi-based pest suppression methods targeting chromatin remodeling and developmental genes. Scientific Awards Distinguished Multicultural Alumni (2019) DuPont Young Professor Award (2016) International Congress of Entomology Travel Awards (2016) Widaman Trust Distinguished Graduate Assistant (2011) Milton E. Mohr Teaching Fellowship (2012) The Vélez Arango Lab investigates durability and safety of insect control technologies, with emphasis on RNAi and Bt crops. Their work informs integrated pest management (IPM) systems and regulatory frameworks.
Xuguo (Joe) Zhou is a Professor of Entomology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, holding the Kearns, Metcalf and Flint Endowed Chair. He is affiliated with the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology and the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. His research focuses on Behavior, physiology, and genomics of social insects Chemical communication in insect systems Insect-plant interactions Recent publications highlight his work in RNA interference mechanisms in beetles, CRISPR gene editing applications in insect pigmentation, and studies on herbicide degradation pathways. These contributions span molecular entomology, agricultural biotechnology, and environmental microbiology. Zhou's work integrates genomic approaches with ecological and physiological studies, particularly evident in his studies on gene function analysis in pest species and development of RNA-based biopesticide strategies. He is based in Morrill Hall, Urbana, Illinois, and can be contacted at xgzhou@illinois.edu.
Michael Boutros is a Full Professor at Heidelberg University and Head of Division at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ). He currently serves as Dean of the Medical Faculty at Heidelberg University (since 2023) and Director of the Marsilius Kolleg (since 2020). He has held leadership roles including Coordinator of the Functional and Structural Genomics Program at DKFZ (2014–2023) and Acting Scientific Director (2015–2016). His academic base is within the Medical Faculty, focusing on molecular oncology and functional genomics. PhD, Witten/Herdecke University (1993–1996) Postdoctoral Research, Harvard Medical School (1999–2003) MPA, John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University (1999–2001) Additional training: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, SUNY Stony Brook His research centers on Wnt signaling, functional genomics, and cancer pathways. He leads major research initiatives such as CRC 1324 on Wnt signaling and the ERC Synergy Grant DECODE. His work integrates high-throughput screening, CRISPR, and systems biology to dissect signaling networks in cancer and development. He has pioneered genome-wide RNAi and CRISPR screens to identify novel regulators of Wnt signaling across models. The 15 most recent articles reflect a strong focus on Wnt pathway regulation using functional genomics in both Drosophila and mammalian systems. Themes include high-throughput screening, CRISPR-based validation, cross-species conservation, and therapeutic targeting. Keywords span Cancer Biology, Systems Biology, and Signal Transduction, with subfields like RNAi, ubiquitination, stem cell regulation, and machine learning in image analysis. Michael Boutros has received numerous scientific honors: Elected member, Leopoldina National Academy of Sciences (2022) Elected member, Heidelberg Academy of Sciences (2022) EMBO Member (2013) ERC Advanced Grant (2012) Johann-Georg Zimmermann Research Award (2007) EMBO Young Investigator (2005) Member, 'Die Junge Akademie' (2003) He has been a recipient of the Emmy-Noether Program, McCloy Fellowship, Boehringer Ingelheim PhD Fellowship, Studienstiftung Fellowship, and Fulbright Fellowship. As a mentor and research leader, he has supervised numerous early-career scientists and coordinated large collaborative grants including the FP7 'CancerPathways' project. He currently serves as Speaker of the Research and Strategy Commission at Heidelberg University and Managing Director of the Health and Life Science Alliance Heidelberg Mannheim. He leads the CRC 1324 on Wnt signaling and is Coordinating PI of the ERC Synergy Grant DECODE. He is also Spokesperson of DFG Research Group 1036 and Coordinator of the former FP7 Coordinated Project 'CancerPathways'. His lab employs cutting-edge functional genomics tools to decode signaling networks in cancer and development.
Cynthia M McMillen is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology at the University of Pittsburgh's Graduate School of Public Health, focusing on bunyavirus tropism and vertical transmission mechanisms using placental models and animal systems. Her educational background includes: Bachelor of Science in Biology from West Virginia University (2010) Ph.D. in Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis from West Virginia University (2016) Post-doctoral training at University of Pittsburgh's Center for Vaccine Research (2019-2022) Dr. McMillen's research centers on bunyaviruses (Rift Valley fever, Cache Valley, Schmallenberg, La Crosse), investigating vertical transmission through placenta explants and rodent models. She develops 2D/3D trophoblast organoids to study host-virus interactions and creates therapeutics including neutralizing antibodies and inducible RNAi systems. Her publication record (2016-2024) demonstrates consistent focus on Rift Valley fever virus pathogenesis, vertical transmission mechanisms, and therapeutic interventions. Key contributions include establishing congenital infection models, testing antibody-based fetal protection strategies, and analyzing vaccine strain attenuation at the maternal-fetal interface. Dr. McMillen actively mentors students through classroom instruction and laboratory guidance, having served as guest lecturer for virology, immunology, and microbiology courses at University of Pittsburgh and West Virginia University since 2012. She conducts high-containment research within the Center for Vaccine Research and Regional Biocontainment Laboratory, utilizing placenta explants and trophoblast organoid systems to dissect viral tropism and transmission pathways.
Christopher S. Sullivan is a Professor in the Department of Molecular Biosciences within the College of Natural Sciences at the University of Texas at Austin. He directs an active research laboratory focused on viral non-coding RNA biology and host-pathogen interactions, with continuous funding evidenced by publications spanning 2005-2025. His work bridges molecular virology, immunology, and RNA biology through investigations of tumor viruses and host defense mechanisms. Research interests center on the role of non-coding RNAs in viral infection and host defense pathways, with particular emphasis on viral microRNAs , RNA interference mechanisms , and host-pathogen coevolution . His lab studies diverse virus families including Polyomaviridae, Herpesviridae, Retroviridae, and avipoxviruses, with key discoveries regarding viral miRNA functions in tumorigenesis and immune evasion. Research approaches integrate molecular virology, next-generation sequencing, and computational analysis to dissect RNA-based regulatory networks. Publications reveal consistent focus on viral non-coding RNA functions, particularly how viruses exploit host RNA machinery (notably DUSP11 phosphatase) to modulate immune responses. Recent work (2021-2025) expands into viral shedding dynamics, SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics, and circular RNA biology in polyomaviruses, demonstrating evolving yet cohesive research trajectory in RNA-virus interactions. Scientific contributions include: Pioneering identification of viral microRNAs across multiple virus families Discovery of DUSP11's critical role in RNA triphosphate regulation during infection Mechanistic insights into viral evasion of RNAi and innate immunity Development of novel RNA-based detection methods The Sullivan lab maintains active collaborations through the Center for Systems and Synthetic Biology, John Ring LaMontagne Center for Infectious Disease, and Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Programs. Lab culture emphasizes collective scientific inquiry with stated mission to 'increase understanding of pathogen-host interactions while enjoying the company of fellow lab members.' Current research directions include viral exploitation of RNA modification pathways and identification of novel host defense mechanisms using viruses as 'molecular divining rods.'
Professor Ronald van Rij holds the position of Professor of Experimental Virology and Head of the Laboratory of Experimental Virology at Radboud University Medical Center in Nijmegen, Netherlands. He also serves as a Guest Professor at the University of Pavia, Italy. His research focuses on antiviral mechanisms in insects, particularly the roles of RNA interference (RNAi) and piRNA pathways in Drosophila melanogaster and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. He has pioneered studies on viral defense in insects and vector competence, with translational work on antiviral compounds against pathogens like Zika and SARS-CoV-2 through the international 'COVID Moonshot' project. Education includes a PhD from the University of Amsterdam (2002) and postdoctoral fellowships at UCSF (USA) and the Hubrecht Institute (Netherlands). He has received prestigious grants such as ERC Consolidator and VICI awards, and was honored as Lecturer of the Year (2019) and PhD Supervisor of the Year (2017). Awards: ERC Proof of Concept Grant (2020), NWO VICI (2017), ERC Consolidator (2014), NWO VIDI (2008), EMBO Fellowship (2002). Teaching: Coordinates courses on virology, non-coding RNA, and innate immunity at Radboud University. Labs: Manages a BSL-3 facility for studying vector-borne pathogens in mosquitoes. His work bridges basic science and translational medicine, with emphasis on small RNA pathways and arbovirus control.
Melanie Kalischuk is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Plant Agriculture at the University of Guelph, Ontario Agricultural College. She holds a B.Sc. in Biological Sciences from the University of Lethbridge, an M.Sc. in Forest Biology from the University of Alberta, and a Ph.D. in Biomolecular Science from the University of Lethbridge. Her research focuses on biotic and abiotic interactions impacting specialty crops such as wine grapes, berries, hazelnuts, ginseng, hops, and high-value vegetables. Key areas include early detection of plant pathogens, developing strategies to enhance crop resilience under environmental stress, and translating research into industry solutions through interdisciplinary collaboration. Her work leverages advanced tools like UAV-assisted multispectral imaging and molecular assays for rapid disease detection. She is affiliated with the Edmund C. Bovey Building and the Ontario Crops Research Centre – Simcoe. Dr. Kalischuk’s contributions span plant pathology, agricultural biotechnology, and crop improvement, with publications addressing fungal pathogens, RNA interference applications, and virus resistance mechanisms. No scientific awards are explicitly listed in her profile. Her research narrative emphasizes practical applications in crop protection, including whitefly-transmitted virus resistance and disease management in cucurbitaceae. While no advising or grant details are provided in the text, her lab focuses on innovation in diagnostics and sustainable agricultural practices.
Lars Aagaard is an Associate Professor at the Department of Biomedicine - Research and Education, Aarhus University, Denmark. He is based at the Bartholin Building in Aarhus C and is actively engaged in research and teaching in the fields of gene therapy, RNA interference, and genome editing. His work focuses on developing viral vectors, particularly AAV and lentiviral vectors, for ocular gene therapy targeting retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. His research interests include the development of Dicer-independent RNAi systems, combinatorial gene therapy using microRNA and CRISPR/Cas9, and the delivery of RNA- and protein-based therapeutics. He also teaches Genetics and Personalized Medicine and supervises postdoctoral researchers, PhD, master's, and undergraduate students. The recent publications (2022–2024) reflect a strong trend in RNAi therapeutics, viral vector engineering, and translational applications in ocular and systemic diseases. Themes include gene silencing, immune modulation, and regenerative approaches using engineered cells. Aagaard actively contributes to the scientific community as a reviewer for journals such as Nature and Molecular Therapy . He has participated in key international conferences including ARVO, ASGCT, and ESGCT, demonstrating ongoing engagement with the global gene therapy community. Supervision of postdocs, PhD, master’s, and undergraduate students Active participation in international conferences and workshops Collaborative research across institutions, including Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo He is involved in both basic and translational research, with potential for clinical applications in gene and cell therapy.
Liu Hongmei is a Researcher and Master's Supervisor at Southern University of Science and Technology's Department of Biomedical Engineering. Holding a Ph.D. from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, she specializes in micro-nano robotics and tissue engineering for tumor therapy, with over 66 publications and 12 patents. Her work bridges biomedical engineering and nanotechnology for precision cancer treatments. B.S., Biological Sciences, Harbin Normal University (2005) M.S., Botany, Northeast Agricultural University (2008) Ph.D., Biochemical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2015) Her research focuses on biomaterials engineering , nanoparticle drug delivery , and microenvironment-responsive hydrogels . Key areas include glioma therapy, traumatic brain injury recovery, and intervertebral disc degeneration treatments. Recent work explores pH/ROS/inflammation-triggered hydrogels and bioengineered bacteria for disease modulation. Article trends show a strong emphasis on nanoparticle design (2014-2025) for glioma, hydrogel development (2017-2025) for tissue repair, and biomimetic material synthesis (2023-2025) inspired by spider silk and meniscus structures. Sub-fields span pyroptosis inhibition, epigenetic reprogramming, and microbiome engineering. Jiangsu Science and Technology Award (2020) Jiangsu Medical Science and Technology Award (2020) Jiangsu Educational Science Research Award (2021) Chinese Medical Doctor Association's Outstanding Young Scientist (2018) Liu has supervised numerous projects including National Natural Science Foundation of China grants, Jiangsu Province Key R&D Program funding, and Shenzhen City General Projects. She holds 12 Chinese invention patents and collaborates with institutions like the UNESCO Centre for Higher Education Innovation.
Lukas Edward Dow is a Professor of Biochemistry and Biophysics at Weill Cornell Medical College (2025-present) and holds a secondary appointment in Medicine. His research spans genetic and non-genetic resistance mechanisms in KRAS-driven cancers, WNT signaling, and CRISPR-based cancer modeling. Ph.D. and B.Sc. from University of Melbourne Focus on CRC, pancreatic, breast, and prostate cancers Research interests include genetic resistance mechanisms , CRISPR applications , WNT pathway dependencies , and tumor microenvironment dynamics . Key publications reveal trends in mutant-specific therapies , epithelial plasticity , and precision genome editing . Current research projects funded by National Cancer Institute and Department of Defense investigate KRAS allelic imbalance, R-Spondin sensitization, and WNT pathway alterations. External collaborations include scientific advisory roles at Mirimus, Inc. and consulting at Revolution Medicines, Inc. His lab develops genetically engineered mouse models and organoid systems for studying cancer progression, with emphasis on metastasis , drug resistance , and epigenetic adaptations . The work has significant implications for improving cancer therapies through context-dependent targeting .
