Stem cell-based platforms for understanding epigenetic memory, and neurodegeneration

Esteban O. Mazzoni, PhD
Professor
Department of Cell Biology 
NYU Grossman School of Medicine
New York, NY, USA

This conference is hosted by Marie Kmita, PhD. This conference is part of the 2024-2025 IRCM conference calendar.

About this conference
Dr. Mazzoni will discuss his advances on two topics: the resolution of chromatin structures at HOX clusters forming the bases of epigenetic memory and the use of stem cell-derived neurons to understand the neurodegenerative process.

About Esteban Mazzoni
Dr. Esteban Mazzoni's research focuses on understanding mammalian cell differentiation to predict and control cellular fate for clinical applications. His lab investigates how transient signals result in permanent memory, employing an integrative approach that combines genomic, tissue culture, and systems-level research. His work bridges mammalian cell differentiation with the speed of Drosophila and the genetic diversity of yeast and humans. Dr. Mazzoni has a strong track record of merging genomic and tissue culture technologies to address cell differentiation questions, including a groundbreaking discovery during his postdoctoral work that altered the Hox regulation paradigm.

As a junior faculty member, he pioneered novel methods to guide stem cell differentiation toward specific neuronal and neurodegenerative fates, now widely accepted. His lab has integrated stem cell differentiation with genetic screens and synthetic DNA technologies, setting new standards in gene regulation research. His team has adopted large screening platforms during stem cell differentiation, which are key for identifying regulatory transcription factors.

Dr. Mazzoni’s lab includes Ph.D. students, postdoctoral researchers, technicians, and undergraduates. He is dedicated to providing a scientific environment that fosters independent research. Many of his trainees have secured prestigious jobs and awards, including NIH fellowships. In addition to his research, Dr. Mazzoni is deeply committed to teaching and mentoring. He prepares syllabi and teaches NYU’s largest biology undergraduate and graduate classes, earning multiple teaching awards, including the NYU Golden Dozen Teaching Award.

Dr. Mazzoni chairs the International Society for Stem Cell Education Committee, has developed a widely downloaded stem cell biology syllabus, and organizes journal clubs and symposia. He is also revamping the NYU medical school Ph.D. program to enhance student success. Furthermore, he co-organized a summer program for underrepresented students in biological sciences and co-PIed an NSF REU grant to fund it. He is featured in the book Hispanic Role Models in Science and advocates for science, STEM, and NIH funding in various forums.

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