Iris Y. Zhou, PhD

Iris Zhou’s research focuses on developing and translating advanced imaging techniques to characterize disease biology in vivo. Over the past fifteen years, she has led multidisciplinary efforts bridging basic imaging methodology with clinically relevant applications in neurological, hepatic, and pulmonary diseases. Her early work in functional MRI established novel approaches for mapping cerebral blood volume and connectivity, forming the basis for subsequent innovations in diffusion and chemical exchange saturation transfer imaging. Her current program centers on molecular probes responsive to biological processes such as oxidative stress and fibrogenesis, enabling noninvasive assessment of inflammatory and fibrotic activity. Drawing on this foundation, Dr. Zhou aims to develop molecular imaging biomarkers of neuroinflammation to interrogate the neuroimmune axis and track disease-modifying therapy effects in Parkinson’s disease. Her combined experience in imaging biomarker development and disease-focused translational studies will support the successful execution of the proposed research in Parkinson’s Disease.