Gnedeva, Ksenia
Our perception of the environment relies on specialized cellular receptors residing in epithelial sensory organs. While olfactory and gustatory receptor cells are naturally reproduced throughout life in order to sustain the senses of smell and taste, age-related degeneration of retinal, auditory, and vestibular sensory organs is largely irreversible in humans. In the Gnedeva laboratory, we interrogate how molecular signaling and tissue mechanics control embryonic sensory organ growth and how the developmental programs of self-renewal and differentiation can be re-initiated in the mammalian inner ear after damage. Although the focus of our research is on hearing and balance restoration, our lab has broader interest in the common mechanisms that suppress regeneration in specialized sensory tissues.
Hahn, Joel
Associate Professor (Research) of Biological Sciences
The overall goal / objective of my research is to increase scientific understanding of the fundamental structure/function relations of the nervous system. Using a variety of research methods, I have investigated neural circuits relating to specific functions (for example, neuroendocrine control of reproduction, eating, and agonistic behaviors), as well as high-level global network organization of the brain. My current research is geared mostly to developing and investigating nervous system network models, and to building tools and resources for systems neuroscience, and more recently for comparing neuroanatomical ontologies within and between species, to simplify and enable more accurate interpretation and communication of neuroscience data.
Herting, Megan
Associate Professor of Population and Public Health Sciences
Our laboratory uses advanced MRI neuroimaging techniques to investigate how the brain develops during childhood and adolescence. Our research focuses on both internal and external risk factors, like hormones, air pollution, and physical activity on brain outcomes like structure, function, cognition, and mental health.
Ichida, Justin
Associate Professor of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine
We are interested in understanding mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases. We also aim to develop new therapeutic strategies for these disorders.
Irimia, Andrei
Andrei Irimia, PhD, is a biogerontologist and computational neurobiologist studying the effects of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors on brain aging. His laboratory uses interpretable deep learning, genomics, and brain imaging to identify and characterize novel risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). He also studies accelerated aging, neurovascular calcification, and brain injury as risk factors for ADRD.
