Hui (Iris) Zhang, PhD,
[email protected]

Principal Investigator

Dr. Hui (Iris) Zhang received her B.A. in Biophysics from Fudan University and completed her Ph.D. in Neurobiology at Columbia University. She then joined the laboratory of David Sulzer at Columbia University for postdoctoral training. Currently, she is an Associate Professor at the Center for Neurological Disease Research, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Georgia. In her free time, she loves to cook, dance, and travel.

Yuanxin Chen, PhD
[email protected]

Associate Research Scientist

Dr. Chen joined the lab in Oct 2023, bringing extensive expertise in understanding the fundamental mechanisms of neurological disorders including vascular dementia. His current research focuses on unraveling the role of mitochondrial dysfunction and neuroinflammation in the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease (PD) utilizing state-of-the-art tools like in vivo and in vitro two-photon laser scanning microscopy (2PLSM), optogenetics, and spatial transcriptomics analysis. His ultimate goal is to develop novel metabolic immunotherapy strategies to combat neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Shiquan Cui, M.D.
[email protected]
Postdoc fellow

Shiquan Cui earned his M.D. degree from Henan University of Chinese Medicine. His current research focuses on mechanism of mitochondrial trafficking deficits in Parkinson’s disease using LRRK2 mouse models.

Huaixing Wang, PhD, M.D.
[email protected]
Postdoc Fellow

“With over 28 years of research experience specializing in neurotransmission and patch-clamp electrophysiology, my work is centered on understanding the synaptic and circuit dysfunctions associated with Parkinson’s disease (PD). My research delves into the mechanisms underlying these disruptions, focusing on the roles of specific ion channels and receptors. By exploring these molecular and cellular processes, I aim to uncover novel insights into the pathophysiology of PD and identify potential therapeutic targets to address the disease’s debilitating effects on neural communication.”

Subhan Ullah
[email protected]

PhD Student

“With a background in immunology, my current research focuses on immunology-driven mechanisms in Parkinson’s disease (PD) pathogenesis. I aim to uncover how immune responses contribute to PD progression and explore potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate neuronal vulnerability and degeneration.”

Paige Sobczak
Undergraduate Student

Paige joined the lab in the Summer of 2023. She is a 3rd year student in Morehead Honors College pursuing a degree in Biomedical Physiology with the intention of attending medical school after graduation. She is currently studying the effect of Rab12 on ciliogenesis in astrocytes and cholinergic interneurons in the brain. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering, reading, and running.

Grace Douglas
Undergraduate Student

Grace is a second-year student who joined the lab in the fall of 2023. She volunteers at Piedmont Hospital and Athens Humane Society. She enjoys cooking, running, and weightlifting in her spare time. She is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Physiology and plans to attend medical school after she graduates.

Isabella Mercer
Undergraduate Student

Isabella is a third-year student who joined the lab in Summer 2024. She is studying to obtain her degree in Genetics and intends to pursue medicine after graduation. She is a volunteer medical assistant at Mercy Health Center and on the executive board of the American Medical Women’s Association. In her free time, you can find her cooking, running, or painting.

Zachary Dennis
Undergraduate Student

Zach joined the lab in the Fall of 2024. He is currently a 3rd year undergraduate student at the University of Georgia studying Biomedical Physiology, with a minor in Spanish. He intends to pursue medical school after his time at UGA. In the lab, he is studying age-related changes in microglia within the striatum. Outside of the lab, he enjoys working out, playing sports with friends, and being apart of many campus organizations.

Juan (Alex) Subiry
Undergraduate Student

Alex is a 3rd year undergraduate student who joined the lab in the fall of 2024. He is majoring in biomedical physiology and intends on attending medical school after graduation. His research focuses on mitochondrial trafficking deficits accompanying LRRK2 mutation. Outside of the lab, he enjoys playing guitar and going to the gym.

Breanna Tran
Undergraduate Student

Breanna is a second-year CURO student at the University of Georgia, studying Biomedical Physiology with a minor in Chemistry. She joined Dr. Zhang’s lab in the fall of 2024 and is currently working on a project about the effects of LRRK2 mutations on neurogenesis in the primary cilia of the brain. She is a Team Leader for Volunteers Around the World, serves on the executive board of the Minority Student Science Association, and is a Chemistry Learning Assistant. Breanna hopes to change the world through her research and by becoming a physician. Outside of academia, she enjoys running, visiting coffee shops, and spending time with her friends and family.

Ritesh Kujuluva
Undergraduate Student

Ritesh is a first year student who joined the lab in Spring 2025. He is currently involved in AMSA, Regenerative Bioscience Undergraduate Society, and enjoys playing guitar, playing basketball, and sim racing in his free time. He is currently majoring in Regenerative Bioscience with a minor in Public Health and plans to attend medical school after he graduates.

Open positions

Join Our Dynamic Research Team!

Exciting Opportunities for Postdoctoral Fellows

Are you ready to push the boundaries of scientific discovery? We’re looking for brilliant postdoctoral researchers to join our vibrant team. If you’re passionate about neuroscience and have a keen interest in mitochondrial dynamics or neurodegenerative diseases, we want to hear from you! Please submit your curriculum vitae and the names of three references to: [email protected]

Ph.D. Candidates: Start Your Journey Here

Aspiring Ph.D. students, please ensure you visit the links below for detailed application requirements and to understand more about our cutting-edge research programs: Home

Opportunities for Current Ph.D. Students

Are you looking for a lab rotation? Our lab offers a stimulating environment where you can gain valuable experience and insight into groundbreaking research. We welcome current Ph.D. students to join us and contribute to our ongoing projects.

Undergraduate Students: Seize the Opportunity to Research with Us

We have openings for dedicated undergraduate students eager to embark on a research adventure. If you are motivated and ready to commit, our lab offers a rich learning environment where you can actively participate in groundbreaking research. Step into the world of scientific discovery and start shaping your future!