Lab Members

Manoj Patel, Ph.D.
I earned my BSc and Ph.D. in Physiology at the University of Coventry, UK. After completing my Ph.D., I continued my electrophysiology training as a postdoc at the University of Virginia, USA, University of Bristol, UK and finally at the University of Cambridge/Pfizer GRD, UK. I returned to the University of Virginia in 2000 where I began establishing my own independent research laboratory.

Over the past twenty years my laboratory has focused on understanding the role of voltage-gated ion channels, particularly sodium (Na), in the development of epilepsy. Na channels play a critical role in controlling neuronal excitability since they are responsible for establishing firing thresholds and generating the upstroke phase of the action potential. My research has focused on understanding the importance of these ion channels in establishing and facilitating the neuronal hyper-excitability associated with epileptic seizures. More recently, my research has focused on the mechanism by which Nav1.6 gain-of-function and loss-of-function mutations can lead to abnormal Na channel activity and epileptic encephalopathy.

In my free time I like to go jogging, mountain biking, hiking and kayaking.

Caeley Reever
(Fourth Year Graduate Student)

I earned a B.S. in Biology from the University of Florida in 2022 before joining the Neuroscience Graduate Program for a Masters and PhD at the University of Virginia. My research in the Patel Lab investigates the impact of gene therapies in genetic forms of pediatric epileptic encephalopathy.

Eric Steacy
(Second Year Graduate Student)

I received a B.S. in Neuroscience from the Brown University in 2021.  I am a second-year graduate student in the Neuroscience Graduate Program and is co-mentored by Dr. Manoj Patel and Dr. John Lukens at the University of Virginia. I worked as a technician in the laboratory of Dr. John Lukens for 3 years before joining the NGP in the summer of 2024. My research focuses on elucidating the role of ferroptosis and oxidative stress in animal models of temporal lobe epilepsy. Outside of the lab, I run a Dungeons and Dragons campaign for fellow BIMS students. I am also an avid skier, gym enthusiast, and streams video games occasionally on Twitch.

Gabriel Miller-Oskolkoff
(Second Year Graduate Student)

I earned a B.S. in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Alaska, Fairbanks in 2024 before joining the Neuroscience Graduate Program at the University of Virginia that fall. My research in the Patel lab focuses on oligodendrocyte precursor cells and myelination dynamics in SCN8A epileptic encephalopathy. Outside of the lab, I enjoy hiking, drawing, and beach combing back home in Alaska. Additionally, here at UVA I am involved with the NGP Committee for Neuroscience Support (CNS).

Matthew S. Yorek, MS (Research Scientist)

Pranav Bhaskar, PhD (Postdoctoral Research Associate)

I earned my Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Panjab University, India. My current research in the Patel Lab at the University of Virginia investigates how NaV1.6 gain-of-function mutations disrupt respiratory regulation and contribute to SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy). I employ whole-body plethysmography to analyze breathing parameters (frequency, tidal volume, and minute ventilation) and electrophysiology to record Na-channel firing in RTNs present in the brain-stem – in genetically modified mouse models under graded CO₂ challenges and post-seizure conditions.

Vishnu Charan Nalluri
(Third Year Student)
Vishnu is a majoring in Cognitive Science, concentrating in Neuroscience, and minoring in Biology at the University of Virginia. He joined the Patel Lab in the spring of 2024. He is focused on developing his skills in patch-clamp electrophysiology to measure action potential properties and synaptic dynamics to see how the SCN8A mutations affect neuronal firing patterns. Outside of school he volunteers at a local fire station, likes to play volleyball, and watch new movies.

Bushra Larijani
(Third Year Student)
Bushra is studying Chemistry at the University of Virginia and joined the Patel Lab in the summer of 2025. She aspires to get into the medical field and possibly earn a Ph.D. in the future. She enjoys playing violin, crocheting/ embroidering, and learning random facts.

• Irene Sanchez Brualla, Ph.D. (Postdoctoral Researcher, 2022 – 2024), Current Position: Assistant Professor at Autonomous University of Barcelona, Spain.
• Eric Wengert, Ph.D. (Graduate Student, 2016-2021), Current Position: Postdoctoral Researcher at Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania
• Matteo Ottolini, Ph.D. (Research Assistant), Current Position: Clinical Research Coordinator at the University of Virginia
• Bryan Barker, Ph.D. (Graduate Student, 2013-2018), Current Position: Research Advocate at ORACLE
• Nicholas Hargus, Ph.D. (Graduate Student, 2006-2011), Current Position: Director of Medical Affairs at Cardiovascular Systems Inc.
• Paulianda J. Jones, Ph.D. (Graduate Student, 2004-2007), Current Position: Professor of Chemistry at Mercy College
• Timothy W. Batts, Ph.D. (Postdoctoral Researcher, 2003-2005), Current Position: Regional Medical Scientific Director at Merck
• Paul W. Lenkowski M.D., Ph.D. (Graduate Student, 2000-2004), Current Position: Otolaryngologist at Roanoke Valley ENT and Allergy