Research Interests
- Astrocyte function in neural circuits
- Bio-inspired neural network architectures
- Computational learning and decision modeling
- Machine learning
- Reinforcement learning
Computational Neuroscience · Astrocytes · Machine Learning
Ethan Chang
Researching how astrocytes shape neural computation to inform bio-inspired artificial intelligence.
About
Research-driven Discovery
I am a neuroscience Ph.D. student at Washington University in St. Louis, a joint doctoral researcher in the Brain Dynamics and Control Lab (Electrical and Systems Engineering) and the Papouin Lab (Neuroscience), led by ShiNung Ching and Thomas Papouin respectively. 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 in Maiken Nedergaard's lab investigating the role of AQP4 on astrocyte endfeet for Glymphatic function.
I am also pursuing advanced training in Computer Science, with interests spanning machine learning, deep learning, and natural langauage processing.
Research and Education
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
- 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.
- 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
- Chang E, et al. Aquaporin-4 Expression on Glymphatic Clearance Routes and Function. Schwartz Discover Scholar Showcase, 2024.
- Chang E, et al. Aquaporin-4 Expression and Size-Dependent Solute Movement in the Brain. UR Undergraduate Research Exposition, 2024.
- Chang E, Barth RK. Isolation of Hydrogen Sulfide Producing Bacteria from the environment. Department of Microbiology and Immunology Poster Session, 2023.
- 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.
Gallery
Snapshots from life
