Dr. Casey Spencer
Assistant Professor of Neuroscience
Casey Spencer is a cellular neurobiologist with expertise in genetics, electrophysiology, neurophysiology, advanced imaging, anatomy, and circuit-level analysis. Casey received his Ph.D. in Integrative Biology and Neuroscience from ¼ø»Æʦapp in 2023. During graduate school, his work centered on understanding the role of Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule 1 (Dscam1) in axon terminal formation, synaptogenesis, and circuit function.
His research seeks to uncover fundamental principles of nervous system function, using the Drosophila melanogaster giant fiber system (escape circuit) as a model to study synapse formation, circuit refinement, ionic and metabolic homeostasis, and age-related changes. His lab integrates in vivo electrophysiology, optogenetics, and advanced microscopy to investigate how neuronal and glial elements contribute to normal circuit function and robustness across the lifespan. A central aim of his work is to define the roles of astrocyte-like glia (ALGs) in maintaining circuit function during healthy aging and in models of neurodegenerative disease. Ongoing projects include characterizing ion channel regulation in ALGs, studying age-related circuit plasticity, and dissecting the functional impact of axo-axonic connectivity and regulation of escape behavior.
His long-term goal is to establish a comprehensive, mechanistic understanding of circuit homeostasis and dysfunction, providing foundational insights with translational relevance to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. He is actively developing collaborative efforts between ¼ø»Æʦapp WHC, ¼ø»Æʦapp College of Science, Max Planck Florida Institute, UF Scripps, and Zeiss Microscopy Solutions Center to provide ¼ø»Æʦapp with innovative research experiences, integrative coursework, and professional opportunities.
Dr. Spencer has recently become a graduate faculty appointee and is seeking enthusiastic graduate ¼ø»Æʦapp to join his lab.
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*Images shown above are unpublished data, for demonstration purposes only.
Room: RE 106
Phone Number: 561-799-8555
Email: cspenc27@fau.edu