Today, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) announced the appointment of Andrea Meredith, Ph.D., as director of the Division of Extramural Activities (DEA).
Prior to joining NINDS, Dr. Meredith was a professor in the Department of Physiology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. She will continue a component of her research through the NINDS Intramural Research Program.
“I am delighted to announce Dr. Meredith’s appointment as director of the Division of Extramural Activities at NINDS following a comprehensive search,” said Walter J. Koroshetz, M.D., director of NINDS. “Dr. Meredith’s experience in basic and translational research, along with a considerable track record of mentorship, and leadership at various levels, will help strengthen NINDS’ extramural research program.”
Dr. Meredith’s research has focused on neurophysiology and the role of ion channels in neurological disorders. In 2019, Dr. Meredith defined KCNMA1 channelopathy, a neurological disorder characterized by a rare type of movement disorder, seizures, and neurodevelopmental delay. Dr. Meredith and her team developed the first series of transgenic KCNMA1 disease models, representing seven types of channelopathy dysfunction.
During her research career, Dr. Meredith received NIH funding from the Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies® Initiative, or BRAIN Initiative®; the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders; the National Institute of General Medical Sciences; the National Institute of Mental Health; and NINDS.
Dr. Meredith has authored more than 60 publications and received numerous honors and recognitions for her research contributions, including the 2021 Biophysical Society Award in the Biophysics of Health and Disease and the Maryland Outstanding Young Scientist Award.
Dr. Meredith has mentored the career development of undergraduate students, graduate students, medical students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty.
Dr. Meredith also co-founded the KCNMA1 Channelopathy International Advocacy Foundation, a nonprofit organization that aims to support research and patient advocacy for KCNMA1-linked disorders. She has served on numerous scientific advisory boards in academia and industry.
NINDS also greatly appreciates the efforts of David Owens, Ph.D., who served as acting director of DEA from January 2024-November 2024.