Laura Blair, PhD

Dr. Laura Blair is a molecular neuroscientist whose research focuses on how molecular chaperones influence tau biology and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Her work, supported by the NIH (NINDS and NIA), the Alzheimer’s Association, the Florida Department of Health, and the VA, explores how chaperones can either protect against or contribute to tau-related brain disorders. Her current NIH-funded project investigates a molecular chaperone as a potential Alzheimer’s treatment and examines how depression-related genetic factors affect disease progression using advanced spatial and proteomic approaches.

Dr. Blair is also a passionate mentor and educator, guiding students and trainees at all levels. Her mentees have earned competitive NIH and Alzheimer’s Association fellowships and gone on to PhD and MD programs. She teaches in USF’s medical and graduate programs, serves on multiple dissertation committees, and actively engages in community outreach to inspire the next generation of scientists.