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Marissa Scavuzzo, a postdoctoral fellow at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, has been awarded the 2023 Eppendorf & Science Prize for Neurobiology for her groundbreaking research on glial cells in the intestine’s nervous system. Glial cells, which are traditionally considered support cells in the brain, play a crucial role in controlling and safeguarding neurons. However, their function in the gut has remained unclear.

Scavuzzo’s research aims to unravel the role of enteric glia in maintaining a healthy gut and how they respond to dietary, environmental, and genetic changes. Understanding the molecular underpinnings of enteric glia’s functional states in both health and disease could pave the way for the development of innovative and effective treatments for gastrointestinal illnesses, benefiting millions of people worldwide.

Expressing her gratitude for receiving the coveted award, Scavuzzo acknowledged the support of her postdoctoral mentor, Dr. Paul Tesar, who played a significant role in fostering her research. Tesar, a professor of genetics and genome sciences at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, described Scavuzzo as a superstar and expressed pride in her well-deserved recognition.

The Eppendorf & Science Prize for Neurobiology, established in 2002, recognizes the outstanding contributions of early-career scientists in the field of neurobiology. The prize is awarded annually in collaboration between the journal Science and Eppendorf SE, a leading life-science company based in Germany. Applicants aged 35 and younger who have made significant contributions to neurobiological research using molecular and cell biology methods are eligible to apply. The winner of the prize receives ,000 and the opportunity to publish an essay in Science.

Marissa Scavuzzo joins a prestigious group of previous awardees who have gone on to become influential figures in the scientific community. Eppendorf’s vice president of corporate citizenship and governmental affairs, Alex Jahns, congratulated Scavuzzo on her remarkable achievement and highlighted the long-standing tradition of the Eppendorf & Science Prize for Neurobiology in supporting young scientists.

Scavuzzo also acknowledged the critical support she has received from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and expressed her enthusiasm for future collaborations that will further advance her research goals.

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