Imaging and Biophotonics

Development of innovative X-ray imaging devices and algorithms for both therapeutic and diagnostic applications.

The Benninger lab studies the endocrine pancreas (islets of Langerhans) to develop diagnostics and therapeutic interventions to effectively manage, cure and prevent diabetes. Towards this goal, the lab combines novel optical imaging and ultrasound imaging approaches to study the function of the islets of Langerhans over multiple levels of organization, and how function is disrupted in diabetes.

We are a dynamic and collaborative research group dedicated to understanding how neural circuits are wired, maintained, and disrupted in disease.

My laboratory's specific research in the area of neuropharmacology focuses on understanding how cAMP and calcium second messenger signaling pathways are organized at the postsynaptic specializations of excitatory neuronal synapses and how these mechanisms are impacted in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Our lab investigates how the diversity and dynamics of synapses shape neural circuit function and behavior. Using a multi-scale and multi-disciplinary approach-from nanoscale molecular organization to millimeter-scale circuit output-we study how neurons encode time and integrate multisensory information.

Our group develops selective (optogenetic) tools to interface with nerves with a focus on parasympathetic neuromodulation for PTSD.

The Gibson lab develops advanced optical microscopes for neuroscience research. Our lab uses optogenetic neuromodulation, two- and three-photon microscopy for deep tissue imaging, and miniature microscopes for neurosurgery applications and basic neuroscience research in behaving animal studies.

We are focused on technology development for fundamental study and engineering of connective and cardiac tissues.

My research focuses on novel approaches to emerging infectious diseases (EID) surveillance, including field-based molecular diagnostics, measuring the clinical and socioeconomic impact of EIDs in resource-limited populations, as well as the immunologic response, and assessing the benefit of community-based interventions such as vaccines.

The Shandas lab translates ideas into clinical use. With over 65 patents, >150 publications, 8 startup companies, over 70 graduate students mentored, and having founded the Biomedical Engineering Department, Dr. Shandas specializes in efficiently moving ideas from fantasy to reality. By incorporating concepts of creative play, lateral thinking, and business-oriented project development, the lab innovates new medical technologies, from devices to diagnostics, many of which are now being used clinically.