Community Spotlight | November 2025
Dr. Aisylu Gaifullina
University of Lausanne
Aisylu Gaifullina combines scientific, technological, and translational approaches to investigate the mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. Driven by a deep fascination with the brain, she seeks to identify the factors that render it vulnerable to disease, with the ultimate goal of promoting healthy, disease-free aging and a better quality of life.
During her Ph.D. in Neuroscience at Ulm University, Germany, she focused on voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels and their interplay with Ca²⁺-sensitive Kv4 potassium channels in dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra. Using patch-clamp electrophysiology, she uncovered a novel physiological role of T-type Ca²⁺ channels in both normal aging and in a Parkinson’s Disease model (A53T, SNCA), shedding light on early dysfunctions in the aging brain.
Looking ahead to her postdoctoral research with Professor Jean-Yves Chatton, Aisylu plans to explore the complex communication between neurons and astrocytes, focusing on their role in aging and Alzheimer’s Disease. Utilizing advanced techniques such as patch-clamp electrophysiology and 2-photon imaging, she aims to shed light on the dynamic interactions that govern brain function and to uncover novel therapeutic targets.
Outside the laboratory, she enjoys jogging and painting, activities that allow her to maintain creativity and balance amidst the demands of scientific discovery.
Dr. Federica Ribaldi
University of Geneva
Federica Ribaldi focuses on dementia prevention, with a particular emphasis on the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease. She is especially interested in individuals with subjective cognitive decline and in identifying the diverse biological and lifestyle-related risk factors that contribute to cognitive impairment. The overarching aim of her work is to enable early interventions and develop strategies that can preserve cognitive health before irreversible decline occurs.
Trained in translational research, Federica’s strength lies in bridging the gap between clinical practice and scientific inquiry. She is passionate about transforming pressing clinical needs into impactful research questions and projects, ensuring that results are not only scientifically rigorous but also directly applicable to patient care. Over the course of her career, she has contributed to and led multiple projects and publications, such as work on the taxonomy and heterogeneity of subjective cognitive decline, the frailty index, and dementia prevention strategies.
Federica has benefited from close collaborations with leading figures in dementia research. Among her most formative mentors is Frank Jessen, who pioneered the field of subjective cognitive decline research, and Giovanni Frisoni, who has supported her development since her very first internship and continues to mentor her today. Together with Frisoni, she co-developed and coordinated the innovative Brain Health Services initiative, which has broadened the field of dementia research through international collaborations and high-level networks. She also draws inspiration from internationally renowned researchers such as Miia Kivipelto and Reisa Sperling, whose work on preclinical Alzheimer’s disease and prevention strategies has deeply influenced her own scientific vision. In addition, she values the ongoing exchange with early-career colleagues like Daniele Altomare, whose dedication and creativity continually inspire her.
Looking ahead, Federica remains committed to advancing the field of dementia prevention by fostering collaboration across disciplines and borders. She firmly believes that impactful translational science can only emerge through teamwork, shared knowledge, and mutual support—principles that have guided her own journey and that she considers fundamental for the future of dementia research.
Outside of academia, Federica is a highly active person who enjoys hiking and trekking across Switzerland and internationally. She is passionate about sports, particularly basketball, and finds joy in music, especially jazz and classic rock, which she prefers to experience live. Her hobbies also include building Lego models inspired by her favorite films, monuments, and bands, including The Beatles. These activities provide creativity, balance, and inspiration alongside her demanding scientific career.
Prof. Urs Albrecht
University of Fribourg
Urs Albrecht combines scientific curiosity, common sense, and persistence to investigate how light shapes brain function. Fascinated by the interplay between environmental cues and our internal timekeeping system, he focuses on how light influences the circadian clock and brain metabolism, processes that may ultimately modulate brain aging. He approaches science with humility, valuing not only those in the spotlight but also the quieter contributors whose work helps illuminate the unknown – while acknowledging that scientific “truth” is always provisional.
As Professor at the Department of Biology at the University of Fribourg, his research explores how tissue-specific clocks adjust to environmental signals and how the brain integrates this information to produce coherent systemic and metabolic rhythms. By uncovering the mechanisms through which light entrains circadian networks, he aims to deepen our understanding of how daily timing impacts health, disease progression, and the aging process.
Beyond academia, Urs is a passionate photographer () who finds inspiration in the details of the natural world. He enjoys running and spending time outdoors, activities that keep him balanced, energized, and attuned to the rhythms that inspire his scientific work.
