Computational Neuroscience · Astrocytes · Machine Learning

Ethan Chang

Researching how astrocytes shape neural computation to inform bio-inspired artificial intelligence.

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Portrait of Ethan Chang

About

Research-driven Discovery

I am a neuroscience Ph.D. student at Washington University in St. Louis. My interests lie in computational neuroscience, astrocyte biology, and machine learning.

My work focuses on understanding how non-neuronal cells called astrocytes contribute to neural circuit function, and how those insights can be translated into more biologically grounded computational models. Prior to this, I was investigating the role of AQP4 on astrocyte endfeet for Glymphatic function.

I am also pursuing advanced training in Computer Science, with interests in machine and deep learning.

Research and Education

Research Interests

  • Astrocyte function in neural Circuits
  • Bio-inspired neural network architectures
  • Machine and Reinforcement learning

Research Affiliations

  • PhD Studuent, Brain Dynamics and Control Lab (PI: ShiNung Ching), Department of Electrical and Systems Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, 2025-present
  • PhD Student, Papouin Lab (PI: Thomas Papouin), Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, 2025-present
  • Student Researcher, Nedergaard Lab (PI: Maiken Nedergaard), Department of Neurology, University of Rochester, 2021-2025

Education

  • Ph.D. in Neuroscience Washington University in St. Louis · 2025–2030
  • M.S. in Computer Science Johns Hopkins University · 2025–2028
  • B.S. in Neuroscience, High Distinction University of Rochester · 2021–2025
  • B.A. in Mathematics University of Rochester · 2021–2025

Publications and Presentations

Journal Articles

  1. Gahn-Martinez D, Giannetto M, Chang E, Beam N, Pla V, Nedergaard M. Chronic intracerebroventricular cannulation as a viable delivery method to CSF. eNeuro, 2025.
  2. Giannetto M, Gomolka R, Gahn-Martinez D, Chang E, Gresser M, Thompson T, Mori Y, Nedergaard M. Glymphatic fluid transport is suppressed by the AQP4 inhibitor AER-271. Glia, 2024.

Presentations

  1. Chang E, et al. Aquaporin-4 Expression on Glymphatic Clearance Routes and Function. Schwartz Discover Scholar Showcase, 2024.
  2. Chang E, et al. Aquaporin-4 Expression and Size-Dependent Solute Movement in the Brain. UR Undergraduate Research Exposition, 2024.
  3. Chang E, Barth RK. Isolation of Hydrogen Sulfide Producing Bacteria from the environment. Department of Microbiology and Immunology Poster Session, 2023.
  4. Chang E, et al. Glymphatic fluid transport is suppressed by the AQP4 inhibitor AER-271. University of Rochester Undergraduate Program in Biology and Medicine Poster Symposium, 2023.

Curriculum Vitae

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