Casey Spencer, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Neuroscience
Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College
Neuroscience
Jupiter Campus | RE 106
Casey Spencer is a cellular neurobiologist with expertise in genetics, electrophysiology, neurophysiology, advanced imaging, anatomy, and circuit-level analysis. Casey received his Ph.D. in Integrative Biology and Neuroscience from Â鶹¾«Æ·ÊÓƵin 2023. During graduate school, his work centered on understanding the role of Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule 1 (Dscam1) in axon terminal formation, synaptogenesis, and circuit function.
His research seeks to uncover fundamental principles of nervous system function, using the Drosophila melanogaster giant fiber system (escape circuit) as a model to study synapse formation, circuit refinement, ionic and metabolic homeostasis, and age-related changes. His lab integrates in vivo electrophysiology, optogenetics, and advanced microscopy to investigate how neuronal and glial elements contribute to normal circuit function and robustness across the lifespan. A central aim of his work is to define the roles of astrocyte-like glia (ALGs) in maintaining circuit function during healthy aging and in models of neurodegenerative disease. Ongoing projects include characterizing ion channel regulation in ALGs, studying age-related circuit plasticity, and dissecting the functional impact of axo-axonic connectivity and regulation of escape behavior.
His long-term goal is to establish a comprehensive, mechanistic understanding of circuit homeostasis and dysfunction, providing foundational insights with translational relevance to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. He is actively developing collaborative efforts between Â鶹¾«Æ·ÊÓƵWHC, Â鶹¾«Æ·ÊÓƵCollege of Science, Max Planck Florida Institute, UF Scripps, and Zeiss Microscopy Solutions Center to provide students with innovative research experiences, integrative coursework, and professional opportunities.
Dr. Spencer has recently become a graduate faculty appointee and is seeking enthusiastic graduate students to join his lab.
Research Highlights
*Images shown above are unpublished data, for demonstration purposes only.