Pediatric research labs
Aravamuthan Lab
Bhooma Aravamuthan, MD, DPhil
Focused on understanding the mechanisms underlying movement disorders and neurodevelopmental conditions, particularly dystonia in cerebral palsy. The lab integrates clinical observation with translational research to identify biomarkers, improve diagnostic accuracy and develop targeted therapies. Its mission includes fostering collaboration across disciplines, training future scientists and translating discoveries into interventions that enhance patient care.
Dang Lab
Mai Dang, MD, PhD
Investigates pediatric brain tumors with a focus on improving treatment through research in tumor biology, immunology and neurology.
Dosenbach Lab
Nico U.F. Dosenbach, MD, PhD
Exploring the complexity of brain organization and plasticity through advanced neuroimaging and behavioral research. Using methods like precision functional mapping, brain-wide association studies and real-time MRI monitoring, the lab aims to improve understanding of individual and population-level brain function, enhance imaging quality and support therapeutic innovation.
Gutmann Lab
David H. Gutmann, MD, PhD
Investigating the genetic, cellular and molecular causes of nervous system dysfunction. Using neurofibromatosis type 1 as a model, the lab applies advanced tools like engineered mice, stem cells and multi-omic analysis to uncover disease mechanisms and develop personalized treatments.
Hyrc Lab
Krzysztof Hyrc, PhD
Studies ionic mechanisms of excitotoxic neuronal cell death. Using optical techniques and low affinity calcium indicators, the lab investigates intracellular ion concentrations to better understand how neurons respond to injury and stress.
Knox Lab
Renatta Knox, MD, PhD
Focused on inherited neuromuscular disorders, including facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy and congenital myopathies, aiming to develop targeted therapies through molecular and translational research.
Mar Lab
Soe Mar, MD
Leading research focused on pediatric multiple sclerosis, white matter diseases and pediatric migraine. Her work also extends internationally to HIV-related neurocognitive disorders and neuroinfectious diseases, aiming to improve diagnosis and care for children affected by complex neurological conditions.
Neil Lab
Jeffrey J. Neil, MD, PhD
Using advanced magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy to study brain injury in newborns and adults. By applying techniques like diffusion tensor imaging, sodium imaging and Bayesian analysis, the lab aims to improve early detection and understanding of injury timing and progression.
Thio Lab
Kwee Liu Lin Thio, MD, PhD
Exploring cellular neurophysiology to improve understanding and treatment of pediatric epilepsy. With a focus on inhibitory glycine receptors and the ketogenic diet, the lab investigates how metabolic and molecular mechanisms influence neuronal excitability and seizure control.
Washington University Neonatal Development Research (WUNDER) Lab
Cynthia Rogers, MD & Christopher Smyser, MD
Studies how early life experiences shape brain development in infants at risk for long-term neurological challenges. Through advanced neuroimaging and clinical research, the lab aims to improve outcomes by identifying early markers of atypical development and guiding interventions.