With over twenty years of experience in neuroscience research, Izi is adept at using a range of molecular, cellular, and systems-level approaches to solve problems in the biological sciences. She also has deep expertise in theoretical research, devising mathematical models of cellular function in health and disease. Her research into the mechanisms of tumor formation has garnered awards from the Society for Neuro Oncology and The American Federation for Aging Research, as well as international press coverage.

 

Izi has led research teams to develop new small-molecule and biological therapies for brain disease; trained personnel on state-of-the-art laboratory techniques; set up tissue culture facilities and molecular biology facilities; designed, manufactured, and validated viral-vector-based gene therapies; isolated, expanded, and evaluated stem cell therapies; and developed custom animal behavior assessments to evaluate neurological disease progression. In 2019, Izi founded the Western Institute for Advanced Study to push forward paradigm-shifting research, and in 2023 she co-founded Numiera Therapeutics to move new oncology drugs into clinical trial. 

​

Izi earned a BSc in Psychology and a BSc Biology at the University of Illinois, then completed her PhD in Neurobiology & Behavior at the University of Washington. She is currently based in Denver, Colorado.