BSC Member - André A. Fenton, Ph.D.

André A. Fenton, Ph.D., is a Professor of Neural Science at New York University. His research focus is molecular, neural, behavioral, and computational aspects of memory. He studies how brains store experiences as memories, and how the expression of knowledge activates information that is relevant without activating what is irrelevant. His lab recordings of electrical brain activity are elucidating the physiology of cognitive control and cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia, intellectual disability and autism. In an effort to integrate investigations and understanding across levels of biological organization, the Fenton laboratory uses genetic, molecular, electrophysiological, imaging, behavioral, engineering, and theoretical methods to investigate these fundamental and interrelated issues in neuroscience. Dr. Fenton and colleagues identified PKMzeta as the first molecule that maintains the persistence of memories in the brain, a discovery recognized by Science Magazine as one of the 10 most important breakthroughs in all of science and technology published in 2006. Dr. Fenton founded Bio-Signal Group Corp., which developed and commercialized an FDA-approved portable, wireless, and easy to use platform for obtaining medical quality EEGs anywhere, anytime, and for everyone. It is being used in innovative clinical applications including in emergency medicine, sports, space exploration, and underserved clinics in Africa. Dr. Fenton is an active science communicator and co-hosted NOVA Wonders on PBS.