Our Team
Lab Members
A collaborative team of neuroscientists, cell biologists, and engineers working to understand the brain.
Principal Investigator
Christopher D. Deppmann
Chris Deppmann is a Professor of Biology at the University of Virginia with joint appointments in Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, and Cell Biology. His lab investigates the molecular mechanisms of neural circuit assembly, axon degeneration, and adaptive metabolism — from how neurons compete for survival during development to how the brain regulates feeding behavior. The lab develops cutting-edge technologies including magnetogenetics for remote neuronal activation and single-cell mass cytometry for high-dimensional brain cell profiling. He is passionate about making large classes feel a bit smaller by leveraging technology, bringing creative approaches to science education including AI-generated trading cards, original music, and podcasts.
Education
- BS, Biomedical Sciences & Chemistry — Western Michigan University (1997)
- PhD, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology — Purdue University (Elizabeth Taparowsky Lab, 1997–2003)
- Post-doctoral Fellow — Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (David Ginty Lab, 2003–2009)
Selected Honors
- All-University Teaching Award, UVA (2016)
- Kavli Frontiers Fellow, National Academy of Sciences (2015)
- Mead Honored Faculty Teaching Award, UVA (2013–2014)
- Hartwell Foundation Individual Biomedical Research Award (2012–2015)
- Sloan Foundation Research Fellowship (2010–2012)
- Excellence in Diversity Fellowship, UVA (2009)
Research Staff
Post-Doctoral Fellows
My work explores how metabolic state remodels molecular signaling, neuronal plasticity, and circuit function in feeding and reward-related brain networks.
Graduate Program
PhD Students
Our graduate students come from Biology, Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Quantitative Neuroscience programs.
Studying the role of Schwann cells in axon degeneration after injury.
Exploring cell death programs that shape the brain: from development to degeneration using single-cell and imaging mass cytometry.
NIH F31 fellowship recipient studying cellular communication in the developing nervous system, focusing on extracellular vesicles and circuit formation.
A signaling atlas of the arcuate nucleus reveals dynamic cell states during energy challenge.
Investigating signaling changes in Rett Syndrome and MECP2 modifications using imaging mass cytometry.
Examining p75NTR post-activation mechanisms affecting neuronal signaling and developmental and degenerative pathways.
Studying the mechanisms of peripheral nerve degeneration, particularly the roles of Schwann cells.
Undergraduate Research
Undergraduate Students
Undergraduates are integral to our research. Many go on to medical school, graduate programs, and research careers.
Assist alongside Jonathon in studying how trophic signals are interpreted in the developing nervous system.
Studying cell signaling in the developing nervous system while developing technical approaches in single-cell mass cytometry.
I work alongside Jingxuan to study the role of PASCs in axonal preservation.
Investigating signaling changes in Rett Syndrome with Mehrael.
Working alongside Jonathon studying neuronal development and synaptic competition.
I work with Yipkin studying neural circuits that regulate appetite and metabolism.
Current Lab Members
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