Colleen Zaccard

Background

About Colleen Zaccard

I’m a Research Assistant Professor of Neuroscience at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, where I study tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) in microglia-neuron communication. My research uses enhanced-resolution microscopy to explore how TNTs contribute to neuroinflammation, synaptic plasticity, and neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease. I recently gave an oral nanosymposium presentation at the 2024 Society for Neuroscience meeting and am honored to present my research as part of a Featured Research Session on TNTs at the upcoming 2025 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC). My earlier work focused on the dynamics of tiny, actin-rich protrusions from dendritic spines, termed dendritic spinules, and their role in synaptic remodeling. My research resulted in a first-author publication in Neuron and a comprehensive review exploring the link between spinules and neurological disorders. 🤖 I’m passionate about integrating AI to enhance discovery. I recently completed the AI Applications for Growth executive program at the Kellogg School of Management, where I developed strategies to apply AI in research and biotech. My work centered on using frameworks like the AI Canvas and AI Radar to scale AI workflows in neuroscience and translational research. I’ve also worked extensively with large language models like Scholar GPT to streamline grant writing, science communication, and experimental design. I value STEM leadership, mentorship, and community-building. As Founder and Inaugural Chair of the Chicago Women in STEM Initiative, I launched a cross-institutional network connecting scientists from Chicago’s top academic institutions and providing a supportive environment for early-career women in STEM to thrive and develop pathways to industry. I currently serve as Faculty Advisor. Our annual International Women’s Day symposium and monthly mentoring program reach hundreds of participants annually across academia, biotech, and health sciences. I’ve mentored undergraduate researchers for 7+ years, supporting their growth in biomedical neuroscience research. My expertise spans neuroscience, immunology, infectious diseases, and advanced microscopy, including live-cell and super-resolution microscopy, rodent and human cell culture, iPSC-derived neuron culture, calcium imaging, AAV vector design, flow cytometry, immunoassays, IMARIS 3D/4D analysis, and biostatistics. I’m exploring roles where I can bridge science, AI, and leadership to accelerate biomedical innovation—ethically, impactfully, and at scale.