Subash Jonnalagadda, Ph.D., is a Professor and Department Head of Chemistry & Biochemistry at Rowan University's College of Science & Mathematics, also affiliated with the Biological & Biomedical Sciences program. He holds a B.S. from Pondicherry University, M.S. from University of Hyderabad, and Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Purdue University, with postdoctoral training at University of Pennsylvania and University of Minnesota. Recipient of Rowan University's Wall of Fame Teaching Award (2013, 2016) Eli Lilly International Graduate Scholar (2000-2005) Research focuses on: Medicinal Chemistry: Developing boron-based small molecules (e.g., benzoboroxoles) and betulinic acid derivatives as anti-cancer agents Biomass Valorization: Converting cellulose into chemicals like hydroxymethylfurfural for bio-based polymers Publications emphasize anti-cancer drug design, nanocarrier systems, and enzyme inhibition strategies. Advised over 50 graduate/undergraduate students, many progressing to academic and pharmaceutical careers. Collaborates with Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine on Alzheimer's drug candidates.
Prof. Dr. Urs F. Greber is an Ordinary Professor of Molecular Cell Biology at the Department of Molecular Life Sciences, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Zurich. His research focuses on understanding how viruses interact with host cells, particularly adenoviruses and rhinoviruses that cause human respiratory diseases. He leads the Greber Lab, which investigates viral entry mechanisms, replication processes, and the cellular responses to infection. Greber's research interests span virology, molecular cell biology, and infection mechanisms. His lab explores how viruses take control over membrane and lipid functions, cytoplasmic transport processes, and cellular metabolism to support their gene expression and progeny formation. They employ system-wide profiling, molecular cell biology approaches, light microscopy, and machine learning for image analysis to map the cell state underlying viral infections of cultured and primary human cells, including lung organoids and iPSC-derived macrophages. A key focus is understanding cell-to-cell variability in infection phenotypes and the mode-of-action of antiviral compounds. The Greber Lab has published extensively on adenovirus biology, including viral entry, uncoating, nuclear import, and assembly mechanisms. Their recent work has identified broad-spectrum antiviral compounds, elucidated alternative virus entry pathways, and developed innovative imaging and AI-based approaches for quantifying virus infectivity. Their research contributes to understanding how viruses break down host defense barriers and has implications for antiviral therapy development. Greber has supervised numerous PhD and Master's students including Cornelia Bircher, Alessandro Savi, Franziska Tomas, Alfonso Gomez-Gonzalez, Anthony Petkidis, and Dominik Olszewski. His lab has received funding from the Swiss National Science Foundation, including a grant for coronavirus research during the pandemic. The lab actively collaborates with other research groups at University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, and international institutions. Current projects include exploring how viral DNA interactions contribute to infection outcome variability, investigating adenovirus egress mechanisms, and developing high-throughput screening methods for antiviral compounds.
Prof. Oliver Seitz leads the Bioorganic Synthesis research group at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Humboldt University of Berlin. His lab focuses on cutting-edge chemical biology approaches for protein/nucleic acid interrogation, with recent work advancing DNA/RNA-programmed assemblies for cellular imaging and therapeutic applications. Research spans chemical protein synthesis, glycoprotein/phosphoprotein engineering, and nucleic acid-templated reactions. Key innovations include Forced Intercalation (FIT) probes for wash-free RNA imaging, loss-of-affinity principles for catalytic efficiency, and peptide-PNA conjugates for targeted cellular delivery. The group actively develops tools for live-cell protein labeling and biomolecular spatial screening. Recent publications (2021-2024) emphasize fluorescence-based detection systems, catalytic templated reactions, and therapeutic peptide synthesis. Trends show increasing sophistication in multi-dye probes, glycan engineering, and RNA-triggered pro-drug activation. Scientific awards include: Max Bergmann Award (2019) Prof. Seitz actively advises doctoral students, with recent graduates Marvin Björn Stutz (2023, magna cum laude ), Dino Gluhacevic von Krüchten (2023, summa cum laude ), and Sophie Schöllkopf (2023, magna cum laude ). Current PhD candidates include Ekaterina Kazakova (glycoprotein synthesis), Alina Herfort (phosphoproteins), and Lina-Marie Beck (peptide-nucleic acid conjugates), with postdocs like Dr. Mandana Oloub (viscosity sensors). The Bioorganic Synthesis lab operates within Berlin's vibrant chemical research ecosystem, utilizing specialized techniques for chemical protein synthesis and nucleic acid detection. Recent team growth reflects ongoing projects in RNA imaging, catalytic templated reactions, and therapeutic conjugate development, supported by open positions for new researchers.
Scott Michael Lindhorst, MD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) College of Medicine. He holds a dual appointment in the Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology within the Department of Medicine. Dr. Lindhorst specializes in neuro-oncology, focusing on central nervous system lymphomas, gliomas, and meningiomas, while also managing brain metastases through clinical trials. Education: BS in Microbiology from University of Florida (2001), MD from University of South Alabama College of Medicine (2005) Training: Residency in Internal Medicine, Fellowship in Hematology/Medical Oncology (University of Alabama at Birmingham), Fellowship in Neuro-Oncology (Duke University Medical Center) His research centers on immuno-oncology , glioblastoma therapy , and epigenetic cancer treatments , with a strong emphasis on clinical trials for novel therapies. Recent publications explore hypermutation in cancer , immune checkpoint inhibition , and programmed necrosis in glioblastoma . Dr. Lindhorst is board-certified in internal medicine, hematology, medical oncology, and neuro-oncology. Clinical practice includes CNS lymphomas , gliomas , meningiomas , and brain metastases , with dedicated clinical trials to advance treatment options.
Lonny R. Levin is a Professor of Pharmacology at Weill Cornell Medical College , where he has worked since 2009. Collaborating extensively with Dr. Jochen Buck, he pioneered research on bicarbonate-regulated soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC) , a critical enzyme in cAMP signaling. Education : B.S. from Cornell University (1983), Ph.D. from State University of New York at Stony Brook (1989) His research focuses on: cAMP signaling microdomains in mammalian cells Mitochondrial metabolism and pH sensing Sperm capacitation and energy regulation Nonhormonal contraceptive development via sAC inhibition Recent publications (2025-2023) highlight: Structural insights into sAC activation Metabolic adaptations during sperm capacitation Emerging role in corneal endothelium signaling Drug discovery for on-demand male contraception Grants from NIH (NIAID, NICHD) support his work on: Intravaginal rings for dual HIV/herpes prevention and contraception Metabolic communication in reproductive systems Signalosome regulation in mitochondria He maintains collaborations with institutions like EMD Millipore Corporation and co-founded Sacyl Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , holding proprietary interests in sAC-related intellectual property.
Shahid Siddique is an Associate Professor in the Department of Entomology and Nematology at the University of California, Davis. His research focuses on understanding molecular and applied aspects of plant-parasitic nematode interactions with host plants. He aims to develop sustainable strategies to mitigate nematode-induced crop losses through genetic, biochemical, and biotechnological approaches. His lab is particularly interested in host resistance mechanisms, nematode effector proteins, and biocontrol solutions. Education: MSc, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan PhD, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria Habilitation, University of Bonn, Germany Research Interests: Siddique’s work bridges basic and applied research, including cell surface signaling in plant-parasitic nematode interactions, functional characterization of secretory proteins, molecular diagnostics for nematodes, and biocontrol strategies. Current projects explore recombination hotspots in nematode genomes, CRISPR-based resistance engineering, and redox signaling mechanisms. Teaching: General Plant Nematology (NEM100) in Spring 2020 Labs/Teams: The Siddique Lab focuses on translating molecular discoveries into practical pest management solutions. Collaborations involve genomic analysis, proteomics, and field trials to address global agricultural challenges.
Prof. Stephan J. Sigrist is a Full Professor of Genetics at the Institute of Biology, Free University of Berlin. His lab focuses on synaptic active zone architecture, neuroplasticity, and aging-related neurodegeneration. He leads the Collaborative Research Center 958 on Membrane Scaffolding and co-directs NeuroCure, a DFG Cluster of Excellence at Charité. Education: PhD in Molecular Genetics (1997) and Habilitation (2005) from the University of Göttingen. Positions: Einstein Professor (2014–present), Spokesperson CRC 958 (2012–present), and Co-Director NeuroCure (2009–present). Research explores presynaptic mechanisms using Drosophila and mouse models, combined with STED microscopy. Key contributions include discoveries of Bruchpilot's role in active zones and spermidine's protective effects against age-related synapse decline. Grants: Over €6 million in funding, including DFG CRCs, Einstein Foundation, and ERC Advanced Grant (2025). Awards: Einstein Professorship, Best Habilitation Award, EMBO/HFSP Fellowships. Collaborations span structural biology (e.g., Stefan Hell), neurophysiology (David DiGregorio), and aging research (Frank Madeo).
Dr. Timur Alexander Yorgan is a prominent researcher at the Department of Osteology and Biomechanics at University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE). Holding a Dr. rer. nat. degree, he has established himself as a leading figure in bone biology with over 60 publications spanning from 2013 to 2025. His research is deeply integrated with key institutional research areas including the Hamburg Center of Neuroscience and immunology research networks at UKE. Dr. Yorgan's research focuses on skeletal development, bone remodeling, and genetic bone disorders, with particular emphasis on Wnt signaling pathways and their role in bone homeostasis. His work spans multiple approaches from molecular genetics to translational studies, investigating osteoblast and osteocyte biology, genetic mechanisms underlying disorders like osteogenesis imperfecta, and the effects of various mutations on skeletal integrity. Recent research has expanded into the gut-bone axis, mechanobiology of bone cells, and neuro-immune interactions affecting bone metabolism. Analysis of Dr. Yorgan's publication record reveals a consistent trajectory of high-impact research in bone biology. His work increasingly explores interdisciplinary connections between bone metabolism and other physiological systems, with growing emphasis on translational approaches for therapeutic interventions. The research demonstrates sophisticated use of mouse models and molecular techniques to unravel complex bone disorders and identify potential treatment targets. Dr. Yorgan appears to be actively involved in collaborative research across multiple institutions, as evidenced by his extensive publication record with numerous co-authors from various departments and institutions. His work is frequently published in high-impact journals including Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, Nature Communications, and Bone Research. The Department of Osteology and Biomechanics at UKE, where Dr. Yorgan is based, is part of a vibrant research ecosystem that includes the Hamburg Center of Neuroscience and other key research networks focusing on immunology, oncology, and cardiovascular research. This collaborative environment enables interdisciplinary approaches to understanding skeletal disorders and developing novel therapeutic strategies.
Kjetil Taskén is a full Professor at the Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo , and serves as the Director of the Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital . He leads the OUS Center for Precision Medicine in Cancer (SEPREK) since 2021 and has held multiple leadership roles in molecular medicine initiatives, including Director of the Norwegian Centre for Molecular Medicine (NCMM) and co-founder of Bioteknologisenteret. Current affiliations: University of Oslo | Oslo University Hospital Education: Dr.med. (Molecular Cell Biology) | Cand.med. | Research Leadership Course Research interests include immunoregulation in cancer , precision oncology , cellular signal transduction in disease , and drug development targeting immune checkpoints . His work bridges translational immunology and molecular oncology , with a focus on regulatory T cell modulation for cancer therapy. Scientific contributions span high-impact publications on regulatory T cell inhibition , precision medicine implementation , and signal pathway drug targeting . Recent articles highlight collaborations across Europe (PCM4EU, PRIME-ROSE) and Norway (IMPRESS-Norway), with methodological advances in tumor microenvironment modeling and mutation timing analysis . Awards : King Olav V Cancer Research Prize | Anders Jahre Medical Prize | Faculty Medal (UiO) | Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters Leadership : Director of NCMM | Founder of Bioteknologisenteret | Head of multiple national cancer research initiatives Labs and teams include the Cancer Immunology Section at Oslo University Hospital and affiliations with the K. G. Jebsen Center for B-Cell Malignancies , where he co-leads research groups.
Kunihiko Kaneko is a Professor at the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, with a distinguished career in theoretical biophysics and complex systems. He received his PhD and MSc in Physics from the University of Tokyo, and has held leadership roles at the Universal Biology Institute and Center for Complex Systems Biology. PhD Physics, 1984 - University of Tokyo MSc Physics, 1981 - University of Tokyo His research spans five primary areas: Universal Biology, Evolutionary Constraints, Ecosystem Dynamics, Neural Cognition, and Universal Anthropology. He has published extensively on multi-level consistency principles, dimensional reduction in biological systems, and reciprocity between robustness and plasticity across scales. Recent publications show strong focus on microbial ecosystems (2025), evolutionary game theory (2025), neural modular architectures (2024), and dimensional reduction in cellular systems (2024). His work bridges physics and biology through dynamical systems theory applied to diverse phenomena from protocells to human societies.
Nicholas M. Kanaan is a Professor of Translational Neuroscience and holds the Maibach Smiley Professorship of Alzheimer's Research at Michigan State University's College of Human Medicine. He serves as Director of Advanced Microscopy and is faculty in both the MSU Neuroscience Program and the MSU BioMolecular Science Gateway. His research is centered at the Grand Rapids Research Center where he leads the Kanaan Laboratory. Dr. Kanaan received his B.S. in Neuroscience, Psychology, and Sociology from Central Michigan University in 2001, followed by a Ph.D. in Neurological Sciences from Rush University Medical Center in 2007. He completed postdoctoral training at Northwestern University from 2007-2010 under Dr. Lester Binder. His research focuses on neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), with emphasis on tau protein pathology. The Kanaan Lab investigates mechanisms underlying degenerative diseases using a combination of in vitro and in vivo model systems. A major focus is understanding how disease-related alterations in tau cause neuronal dysfunction through disruption of axonal transport. His lab has identified a phosphatase-activating domain (PAD) in tau that inhibits anterograde fast axonal transport. Analysis of Dr. Kanaan's publication record reveals a consistent focus on tau protein biology, with recent work emphasizing iPSC models, CRISPR screening, tau proteostasis, and therapeutic interventions targeting tau phosphorylation and oligomerization. His research spans basic molecular mechanisms to translational applications, with increasing use of primate models and advanced screening technologies in recent years. Scientific Awards and Recognition: Maibach Smiley Alzheimer's Research Professor Maibach Smiley Professor of Alzheimer's Research Dr. Kanaan mentors numerous students and postdoctoral fellows in his laboratory, with research supported by multiple grants focused on understanding and treating neurodegenerative diseases. His lab employs a wide range of technical expertise including recombinant protein purification, cell culture, monoclonal antibody production, various microscopy techniques, and behavioral testing in rodent models. Outside the lab, Dr. Kanaan enjoys photography, woodworking, and fishing.
Prof. Dr. Soeren Lienkamp is an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Anatomy , Faculty of Medicine , University of Zurich . His work bridges digital education and genetic research , focusing on enhancing medical teaching through innovative formats. Research Interests : Genetics, developmental biology, kidney disease modeling, CRISPR applications, digital medical education, and advanced microscopy. Methodologies : Combines Xenopus tropicalis models, deep learning , and bioengineering to study genetic kidney disorders and improve diagnostic tools. Publication Trends : His recent articles highlight predictable genome editing , 3D imaging technologies , and mechanistic insights into kidney and eye development. Earlier works focus on ciliary function , Wnt signaling , and metabolic stress in renal cells.
Caryl E. Sortwell is a Professor of Translational Neuroscience and Edwin A. Brophy Endowed Chair in Central Nervous System Disorders at Michigan State University's College of Human Medicine. She leads the Sortwell Lab within the Neuroscience Program and Grand Rapids Research Center, focusing on Parkinson's disease (PD) therapeutics. Education : B.S. in Psychology/Pre-medicine (University of Illinois, 1987), Ph.D. in Anatomy and Cell Biology/Neurobiology (University of Illinois at Chicago, 1994) Positions : Assistant/Associate Professor at Rush University Medical Center (1997-2005), Associate Professor at University of Cincinnati (2005-2009), Professor at MSU College of Human Medicine (2009-present) Her research investigates alpha-synuclein pathology in PD using preformed fibril models to study neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, and therapeutic interventions. She explores neurotrophic factors like BDNF, gene therapies targeting CaV1.3 channels, and deep brain stimulation mechanisms. Her work emphasizes precision medicine approaches to optimize treatment outcomes. Scientific contributions include methodological advancements in neurochemical sensing with diamond electrodes and viral vector delivery systems. Key collaborations include research with Dr. Joe Patterson on alpha-synuclein genetic consequences. Technical Expertise : Immunohistochemistry, stereotactic surgery, in vivo neurotoxicant models, protein analysis (Western blot/ELISA), droplet digital PCR, and neuroinflammatory profiling
Sudin Bhattacharya is an Associate Professor at the BioMolecular Science Gateway, Michigan State University, with affiliations in the Genetics & Genome Sciences Program and Cell & Molecular Biology Program. His research bridges computational biology and toxicology to understand complex biological systems. Email: sbhattac@msu.edu Research Interests Dr. Bhattacharya specializes in systems toxicology, focusing on computational modeling of gene regulatory networks, single-cell transcriptomics, and molecular dynamics in response to environmental toxicants. His work examines how chemical exposures disrupt cellular pathways and contribute to disease mechanisms. Article Trends His recent publications emphasize: Single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing for toxicological profiling Computational models of circadian rhythms and intercellular communication Dose-dependent responses to environmental chemicals like TCDD and heavy metals Mechanistic studies of adipose tissue remodeling and hypertension Applications of machine learning in chemical risk assessment Integrative approaches to liver metabolism and disease modeling Scientific Contributions Dr. Bhattacharya has pioneered multiscale modeling of biological systems, particularly in hepatic and vascular contexts. His work on the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and PPARα signaling networks has advanced predictive toxicology frameworks.
Joshua J. Coon is a Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison with appointments in the Department of Biomolecular Chemistry and the Department of Chemistry. He leads the Coon Group, focusing on advancing mass spectrometry technologies for proteomics, metabolomics, and lipidomics. His research addresses fundamental questions in cell biology, including stem cell differentiation, epigenetic regulation, and cancer biomarker discovery. Affiliations : Director of the NIGMS National Center for Quantitative Biology of Complex Systems. Research Emphasis : Instrumentation development, data analysis software, ion chemistry, and biological applications of proteomics. Laboratory : Located in the Genome Center of Wisconsin with a dozen hybrid mass spectrometers, including Orbitrap systems. Collaborations : Long-term partnership with Thermo Fisher Scientific and the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) for technology commercialization. Training : Mentored 27 Ph.D. students since 2009, emphasizing interdisciplinary research and professional development.
