Professor
Mei Zhen
Molecular Genetics
PhD
Location
Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute
Address
600 University Avenue, Room 870, Toronto, Ontario Canada M5G 1X5
Research Interests
Bioinformatics and computational biology, C. elegans, Mouse models, Neuroscience, Optogenetics, Imaging and microscopy
We study fundamental principles that govern neural circuit assembly and functions. We combine computational biology, electron microscopy, genetics, optogenetics, calcium imaging, and electrophysiology to address how the C. elegans and mouse nervous system develops and operates. Insights obtained from our model system studies reveal circuit deficits that underlie human neurological disorders.
Courses taught
- JDB1025H: Developmental Biology (Collaborative Program in Developmental Biology)
- JYG1555H: Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology (Physiology)
- MMG1012H: Advanced Imaging: Techniques and Application in Biological Systems (Molecular Genetics)
- MMG1012H: Developmental Neurobiology (Molecular Genetics)
- MGY480Y: Undergraduate Research Thesis Course (Fourth Year)
- MGY399Y: Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (Third Year)
- MGY299Y: Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (Second Year)
Awards
- Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Neural Circuit Development and Function
- Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Neuroscience
- Fellow, The Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, Harvard University
- EJLB Scholar, the EJLB Foundation
- Human Frontier Science Fellowship Long-term Post-doctoral Fellowship
Cross-affiliations
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute