PhD
Associate Professor, Cell Biology and Physiology
UNC-Chapel Hill
Cancer Cell Biology Research Program
Area of Interest
Lipids are crucial molecules for life. They play important roles in building membranes, storing energy, and cell signaling. We are interested in how lipids move around both within cells and between cells, for example from astrocytes to neurons. The lab uses cutting-edge microscopy techniques including live-cell imaging, superresolution microscopy, and multispectral imaging. We use these approaches to understand how defects in lipid trafficking contribute to metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases.
Awards and Honors
- Phillip and Ruth Hettleman Prize for Artistic and Scholarly Achievement, UNC-Chapel Hill, 2025
- NIH K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award, 2016-2021
- Fellows Award for Research Excellence, NIH, 2016
- Women Scientist Advisors Scholar Award, NIH, 2014
- Zoology Graduate Fellowship, UBC, 2010
- Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research Trainee Award, 2005-2010
- Canada Graduate Scholarship, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, 2006-2010
- Killam Predoctoral Fellowship, UBC, 2006-2007
- McLean Fraser Memorial Scholarship, UBC, 2005-2006
- Right Honorable Don Mazankowski Scholarship, UBC, 2004-2005
- Undergraduate Scholar Program Award, UBC, 2001-2005
News and Stories
UNC Lineberger faculty members presenting Het Talks during University Research Week
Three UNC Lineberger members will share their research during the Het Talks at UNC-Chapel Hill’s University Research Week, Oct. 20-24.
UNC honors three cancer center members with 2025 Hettleman Prizes
Sarah Cohen, PhD, Marissa Hall, PhD, and Lindsey James, PhD, were awarded Hettleman Prizes, which recognizes UNC-Chapel Hill early-career faculty who exemplify groundbreaking and innovative research.
