Dr. Joseph Che-Yen Wang's lab focuses on studying the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is a major global health issue affecting millions. The lab uses advanced imaging techniques, particularly cryo-electron microscopy, to explore the detailed structures of HBV capsids and virions as they develop in human cells. This research aims to uncover the mechanisms of viral replication and potential targets for new antiviral treatments.

Dr. Frank Gerard Hillary's research lab at Penn State focuses on improving our understanding of traumatic brain injury (TBI) through advanced data sharing and analysis techniques. The lab is part of the ENIGMA consortium, which aims to harmonize brain imaging and behavioral data from diverse studies, facilitating large-scale analyses that can identify meaningful patient subgroups. By creating tools and pipelines for data harmonization, the lab seeks to enhance clinical outcomes for TBI patients and contribute to broader neuroscience research.

Dr. Robert J. Turrisi's lab conducts research aimed at reducing risky alcohol and cannabis use among college students through innovative parent-based interventions. The lab focuses on creating effective discussions between parents and their college-bound teens regarding substance use, particularly in light of increasing legalization and usage rates. Their recent studies indicate that enhanced parental guidance can lead to decreased substance use in this age group, reflecting the lab's commitment to improving student health outcomes.

Dr. Pingnian He's lab focuses on understanding how atherosclerosis, a common vascular disease, leads to cognitive impairments and dementia. With an aging population increasing the prevalence of these conditions, the lab investigates the specific mechanisms linking blood vessel health to brain function. By conducting experiments in animal models and human samples, the lab aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets and preventive strategies for cognitive decline.

Dr. Ibrahim Ozbolat's lab focuses on innovative approaches in tissue engineering, specifically using 3D printing technologies to create vascularized tissues. They are developing new techniques that utilize air as a 'ink' in 3D bioprinting to overcome challenges in creating stable vascular networks. By combining microsurgery with bioprinting, the lab aims to improve the vascularization of tissue grafts for better clinical outcomes in reconstructive surgery.

Dr. Martha E. Wadsworth's lab at Penn State focuses on addressing mental health issues among low-income adolescents, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The lab is especially interested in how chronic stress affects mental health and developing interventions that empower youth to cope with these challenges. Through programs like the Building a Strong Identity and Coping Skills (BaSICS), they aim to reduce mental health disparities by fostering resilience and social identity in young people.

Asher Y. Rosinger's research lab at Penn State investigates the effects of drinking water salinity on health, particularly in hot environments. This research is crucial as increasing groundwater salinity poses a health risk, potentially affecting kidney function and blood pressure. The lab aims to establish clear links between salinity levels in drinking water and various health outcomes over time, emphasizing the importance of safe water standards for public health.

Dr. Christopher Yengo's lab focuses on understanding how specific proteins, known as myosins, influence the shape and function of cells in both the inner ear and heart muscle. By studying myosins that control hair cell structures critical for hearing and those linked to heart conditions, the lab aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of deafness and heart disease, which could lead to potential therapies.