Courtney Marshall

My lab studies the underlying pathological mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Our research focuses on the microtubule associated protein tau and glutamatergic receptors. Specifically, we are interested in elucidating how the synaptic location of glutamate receptors influences the progressive spread of aggregated tau and other clinical symptoms associated with AD. Additional research interests include determining which brain regions are most susceptible to these pathological changes and understanding distinct cellular and behavioral characteristics that differentially arise throughout disease duration. In order to best address such scientific inquiries, we utilize clinically relevant cellular and animal AD models to recapitulate changes observed in patients. This translational approach facilitates our abilities to investigate potential therapeutic targets for this disease.

I teach NEUR 100 (Brain, Behavior, and Cognition: An Introduction to Neuroscience), NEUR 300 (Capstone Seminar in Neuroscience), and NEUR 320 (Current Trends in Neurodegenerative Disease Research). In the advanced NEUR 320 course we examine recent primary literature on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Students debate the approval and effectiveness of various therapeutic approaches currently presented as options to patients. Discussions also include the significance of representation in patient cohorts used in scientific research.

Through my roles as researcher and teacher I aim to be an effective educator. I employ curriculum that offers both structure and creativity, approaching the world of science with an eye for problem solving and a heart with compassion. I am passionate about mentoring enthusiastic undergraduate students in my lab as well as my classroom.