P. Ozdinler

P. Hande Ozdinler is a multifaceted professional with a diverse background in science, academia, and media. She is currently an International Press Member at INTERNATIONAL PRESS, based in Chicago, IL.23

Professional Background

Dr. Ozdinler is primarily known for her work in neuroscience, specifically in ALS research. She is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neurology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.14 Her research laboratory, which opened in October 2008, focuses on motor neurons and their degeneration in ALS patients.1

Education and Training

Dr. Ozdinler has an extensive educational background:

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Cell Biology, Anatomy, and Neuroscience (1998-2001)
• Certificate Programs in Management Skills for Innovative University Leaders and Woman Leaders in Science Platform
• Bachelor of Science (BS) and Master of Science (MS) in Molecular Biology and Genetics2

Research Contributions

The Ozdinler lab has made significant contributions to ALS research, including:

• Discovering that increased ER-stress is a cellular mechanism responsible for upper motor neuron vulnerability and degeneration in ALS
• Focusing on corticospinal motor neurons, which Dr. Ozdinler was the first to label, isolate, and culture1

Additional Roles and Interests

Beyond her scientific work, Dr. Ozdinler is:

• A painter and writer
• An advocate for women, science, and education
• A mother3

She is also involved in organizing conferences and symposiums related to ALS research and clinical care.1

Recent Achievements

In 2019, Dr. Ozdinler received a grant to spur ALS drug discovery at Northwestern University.5 She continues to be active in research and public engagement, participating in webinars and creating educational videos about ALS research.67