Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Marissa Mueller

Postdoctoral Scientist in Preclinical Neuroimaging

Current Role

I am a postdoctoral research scientist with experience in neurodevelopmental biology, histology, bioengineering, behavioural studies, and preclinical neuroimaging. I am part of a team led by Prof. Jason Lerch which aims to sensitise MRI to specific cell subtypes, densities, and morphologies in the brain. This work is supported by a Wellcome Bioimaging Technology Development Award.

Research Focus

  • Characterising mouse models featuring genetically-abolished presynaptic vesicle release and regulated neurotransmission in subpopulations of cortical layer 5-6 projection neurons
  • Developing and validating preclinical MRI methods
  • Analysing multimodal datasets to gain complimentary insight into the roles of cell subtypes and associated networks

Background

I completed my DPhil in Physiology, Anatomy, and Genetics at the University of Oxford where I studied the role of deep-layer corticofugal neurons in progressive neuroanatomical and motor degeneration. Prior to this, I completed my MSc in Neuroscience (University of Oxford) and BSc in Engineering (University of Iowa) with a specialisation in stem cells and regenerative biology. I am originally from Petrolia, Ontario, Canada.

Neuroimaging and histology

This image of a mouse brain was obtained using spinning disk confocal microscopy. Our team merges histological, neuroimaging, and behavioural techniques to characterise the effects of genetic manipulations to cell subpopulations indicated as conceivable substrates for developmental origins of neuropathologies, including but not limited to motor neuron disease.