Geraldine Zimmer-Bensch | Neuroepigenetics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Geraldine Zimmer-Bensch | Neuroepigenetics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Geraldine Zimmer-Bensch | RWTH Aachen University | Germany

Prof. Dr. Geraldine Zimmer-Bensch is a distinguished neuroepigeneticist at RWTH Aachen University, Germany. With over two decades of academic and research excellence, she has significantly contributed to understanding how epigenetic mechanisms influence brain development and disorders. Her research spans neuronal migration, cortical circuit formation, and neurodevelopmental diseases. She earned her PhD under Prof. Jürgen Bolz in Jena, followed by impactful postdoctoral stints, including one with Prof. Roberto Lent in Rio de Janeiro. As an editor for high-impact journals and collaborator on international projects, she remains a key voice in neuroepigenetics. Prof. Zimmer-Bensch’s research not only advances fundamental neuroscience but also provides translational insights into conditions such as schizophrenia and neurodegeneration. Through interdisciplinary approaches and global collaborations, she exemplifies academic leadership and innovation in modern neuroscience.

Publication Profiles: 

Google Scholar 
Orcid

Education:

Prof. Geraldine Zimmer-Bensch began her academic journey with a diploma in Biology from the University of Jena. She pursued her PhD in Neurobiology at the same institution under the mentorship of Prof. Jürgen Bolz. Her doctoral research focused on molecular and cellular mechanisms guiding interneuron development. She then expanded her training with postdoctoral research in neurodevelopment at the University of Jena and the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro under Prof. Roberto Lent, exploring neural migration and guidance cues in developing brain structures. This robust educational background laid the foundation for her expertise in epigenetics and neurodevelopment. Her interdisciplinary education across molecular biology, neuroanatomy, and epigenetics equips her to address complex neuroscientific questions at the intersection of genomics and brain function, contributing to groundbreaking insights into brain evolution, neural plasticity, and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Experience:

Prof. Dr. Zimmer-Bensch has held a professorship in Neuroepigenetics at RWTH Aachen University. Prior to this, she led a research group at the Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Jena, where she conducted seminal research on epigenetic mechanisms in neuronal development. Her postdoctoral experience includes prestigious positions in Jena and Brazil, where she worked with leading scientists on neural migration and brain structure formation. She is currently involved in several interdisciplinary collaborations across Europe and Asia, including research on brain-gut interactions, electrophysiology, microscopy, and computational modeling. As Editor-in-Chief of Neurogenetics and topic editor for multiple high-impact journals, she actively shapes scientific discourse in her field. Her mentoring, leadership, and ability to integrate cross-disciplinary methodologies make her a standout scientist in neuroepigenetics. Her work bridges basic and translational neuroscience, with applications in understanding developmental disorders, psychiatric conditions, and age-related cognitive decline.

Research Focus:

Prof. Zimmer-Bensch’s research centers on the epigenetic regulation of brain development and function, particularly focusing on cortical interneuron migration, neuronal integration, and circuit maturation. She investigates how DNA methylation and histone modifications orchestrate the formation and plasticity of cortical networks, with a special focus on DNMT1’s non-canonical roles. Her studies reveal how disruptions in epigenetic control mechanisms may lead to neurodevelopmental disorders, psychiatric conditions, and neurodegeneration. Recent projects explore the brain-gut axis in anxiety, sex-specific epigenetic vulnerabilities, and computational models of synaptic regulation. Utilizing cutting-edge tools like microfluidics, microscopy, molecular simulations, and electrophysiology, her work is highly interdisciplinary. Through collaborations with institutions across Germany, France, Switzerland, Japan, and India, her lab contributes to both mechanistic insights and potential therapeutic pathways for brain diseases. Her future research aims to integrate multi-omics approaches to uncover novel targets for neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative therapies.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. A hereditary spastic paraplegia mouse model supports a role of ZFYVE26/SPASTIZIN for the endolysosomal system – PLoS Genetics

  2. Emerging roles of long non-coding RNAs as drivers of brain evolution – Cells

  3. Ephrin‐A5 acts as a repulsive cue for migrating cortical interneurons – European Journal of Neuroscience

  4. A spastic paraplegia mouse model reveals REEP1-dependent ER shaping – The Journal of Clinical Investigation

  5. The epigenome in neurodevelopmental disorders – Frontiers in Neuroscience

  6. Bidirectional ephrinB3/EphA4 signaling mediates interneuron segregation in the migratory stream – Journal of Neuroscience

  7. Chondroitin sulfate and semaphorin 3A guide tangential interneuron migration – Cerebral Cortex

  8. Ephrins guide migrating cortical interneurons in the basal telencephalon – Cell Adhesion & Migration

  9. EphA/ephrin A reverse signaling promotes migration of cortical interneurons – Development

  10. Multiple effects of ephrin-A5 on cortical neurons mediated by SRC kinases – Journal of Neuroscience

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Geraldine Zimmer-Bensch is an exceptional researcher with a consistent record of high-impact contributions to neuroscience and epigenetics. Her ability to conduct pioneering research, lead international collaborations, and steer academic publishing speaks volumes about her expertise and influence. While there is scope for expanding into translational domains, her foundational work has laid critical groundwork for future therapeutic strategies in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. Given her scientific rigor, leadership, and international collaborations, she is eminently suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Recognizing her achievements would not only honor her individual excellence but also spotlight the growing importance of neuroepigenetics in contemporary biomedical science.

Igor Klimenkov | Neuronal Cell Biology | Best Paper Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Igor Klimenkov | Neuronal Cell Biology | Best Paper Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Igor Klimenkov , Limnological Institute, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences , Russia

Dr. Igor Viktorovich Klimenkov is a renowned Doctor of Sciences in Biology, currently serving at the Limnological Institute, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. His research spans neurobiology, environmental adaptations, and the structural mechanisms of sensory organs. His expertise lies in olfactory biology, with a focus on the structural rearrangements of receptor neurons and their adaptive functions. Dr. Klimenkov’s dedication to scientific inquiry has led to significant contributions in the field of cell biology and neurogenesis. He has received multiple research grants and collaborations with prestigious institutions, establishing him as a thought leader in his field.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Experience: Klimenkov has led numerous impactful research projects over the years, focusing on cell biology, neurogenesis, and environmental adaptations, particularly in aquatic species. His work addresses critical environmental and biological issues.

  2. High-Quality Publications: He has published 62 papers in SCOPUS-indexed journals, demonstrating a consistent and high-level output of scientific research. His studies, particularly in olfactory epithelium transformation and neurogenesis, contribute valuable insights to the field of neurobiology.

  3. Cutting-Edge Research Areas: Klimenkov’s research in the structural mechanisms of odorant-dependent adaptation and its implications for environmental adaptation in organisms is highly relevant, and his projects show promise in terms of both theoretical and practical applications.

  4. Interdisciplinary Contributions: His work integrates neurobiology, cell biology, and ecological studies, demonstrating his ability to collaborate across fields, as evidenced by his partnerships with leading institutions like the Institute of Higher Nervous Activity & Neurophysiology.

  5. Academic Recognition: Klimenkov holds a prestigious Doctor of Sciences in Biology degree and is a full member of the Russian Ecological Academy. He has a solid citation index in SCOPUS, reflecting the recognition of his work by the global scientific community.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Limited Patent or Industry Engagement: While Klimenkov has a strong academic presence, there appears to be limited involvement with patents or commercial applications of his research. A more significant impact on applied science or industry collaborations could enhance his profile.

  2. More Diverse Collaborations: Although he collaborates with leading Russian institutions, expanding international collaborations could potentially bring broader perspectives and visibility to his research.

  3. Further Engagement in Editorial Work: Klimenkov could consider taking on editorial roles in scientific journals or as a peer reviewer to enhance his influence in the academic community and contribute to the development of the field further.

Education:

Dr. Klimenkov holds a Doctor of Sciences degree in Biology, specializing in Cell Biology and Physiology. He completed his education with a focus on the study of olfactory epithelium and neurogenesis in both aquatic and terrestrial species. His academic journey has been characterized by his deep engagement with physical and chemical biology. He earned his academic degrees with distinction, and his research has been consistently recognized and supported by research grants from Russian Science Foundations and other academic bodies. His involvement with the Russian Ecological Academy further exemplifies his scholarly commitment.

Experience:

Dr. Klimenkov has over two decades of extensive experience in the biological sciences, with a focus on environmental adaptation, cell biology, and neurobiology. As an Assistant Professor and Doctor of Sciences, his career spans a range of significant research projects. These include his work on the structural rearrangements of olfactory receptor neurons in various species, particularly in fish. His research has garnered funding from the Russian Science Foundation for projects addressing neurogenesis, the environmental impact of pollutants, and adaptations in aquatic organisms. His collaborations with leading research labs, such as the Functional Neurocytology Laboratory of the Russian Academy of Sciences, have furthered his contributions to the global scientific community.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Klimenkov has been a recipient of numerous prestigious research grants, such as those awarded by the Russian Science Foundation (RSF) and the Russian Foundation for Basic Research (RFBR). His contributions to neurobiology and environmental science have been highly recognized within the scientific community. In 2020, he was honored as a full member of the Russian Ecological Academy, reflecting his significant impact in his field. He is actively involved in various international scientific dialogues and continues to advance research that intersects environmental science with neurobiology. His work has been widely cited, underscoring his prominence in biological sciences.

Research Focus:

Dr. Klimenkov’s research primarily focuses on neurobiology, with a special emphasis on the structural and functional aspects of the olfactory system in animals. He investigates the mechanisms underlying odorant-dependent adaptation and the role of the olfactory epithelium in neurogenesis. His research is particularly concerned with how various environmental factors influence sensory organs, especially in aquatic species. His studies on the impact of soot microparticles and other pollutants in Lake Baikal have raised awareness about the ecological risks posed to aquatic life. Moreover, he has contributed valuable insights into the structural rearrangements of olfactory receptor cells during reproductive cycles, pushing the boundaries of sensory biology and its environmental correlations.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Structural Rearrangement of the Olfactory Epithelium in Male Baikal Yellowfin Sculpins Across the Reproductive Period 🐟🔬 (2025)
  2. Degenerative and Regenerative Actin Cytoskeleton Rearrangements, Cell Death, and Paradoxical Proliferation in the Gills of Pearl Gourami (Trichogaster leerii) Exposed to Suspended Soot Microparticles 🌱🐟 (2023)
  3. The Phenomenon of Compensatory Cell Proliferation in Olfactory Epithelium in Fish Caused by Prolonged Exposure to Natural Odorants 🐠👃 (2020)
  4. Rearrangement of Actin Microfilaments in the Development of Olfactory Receptor Cells in Fish 🔬🐟 (2018)
  5. Accumulation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons in Intracellular Lipid Bodies of the Freshwater Diatom Synedra acus Subsp. radians 🌍💧 (2017)

Conclusion:

Klimenkov Igor Viktorovich’s research demonstrates significant contributions to neurobiology, environmental adaptation, and aquatic life sciences. His ability to lead impactful research projects, publish high-quality papers, and garner recognition within his academic and professional circles makes him a strong candidate for the Best Paper Award. While there is room for growth in terms of applied science and international collaborations, his research is highly commendable and deserving of further recognition. Therefore, based on his expertise, publication record, and significant contributions to the field, I strongly recommend Klimenkov for the Best Paper Award.