A leading figure in neurological research, James F. Castellano serves as an Assistant Professor of Neurology at the University of Pittsburgh. His academic journey began with earning both his MD and PhD from the esteemed Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York. Before his residency, he delved into the fascinating world of epigenetics and hippocampal synaptic plasticity at the National Institute on Aging. His research passion lies in unraveling the complexities of epigenetics, epileptogenesis, and pharmacoresistant epilepsy, aiming to pave the way for innovative treatments for these challenging conditions. In his clinical practice, Dr. Castellano is deeply engaged in critical care EEG, neurophysiologic intraoperative monitoring, and epilepsy surgery. He further honed his expertise by completing a residency in neurology and a combined adult/pediatric epilepsy fellowship at Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center. His dedication to the highest standards in both research and patient care is underscored by his board certifications in Neurology and Epilepsy. His work with critical care EEG is particularly vital, playing a significant role in managing patients with severe neurological issues. Dr. Castellano is an active and contributing member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Neurology, the American Epilepsy Society, the American Clinical Neurophysiology Society, and the American Medical Association. This involvement highlights his commitment to staying at the forefront of his field and fostering collaboration among experts. His impactful contributions to neurology have been recognized through various awards and honors, reflecting his influence within the scientific community. These include the NeuroNEXT Fellowship, the American Epilepsy Society Fellows Program, the Leo M. Davidoff Medical Student Teaching Award, a Resident Scholarship to the AAN Meeting, and the Outstanding Intern Award in Preliminary Medicine. Beyond his impressive professional accomplishments, Dr. Castellano is genuinely passionate about guiding and inspiring the next generation of neurologists and researchers. He is dedicated to cultivating an environment that encourages learning and innovation, empowering his students to explore new ideas and challenge existing paradigms in the dynamic field of neurology. Through his ongoing research, dedicated clinical practice, and enthusiastic teaching, Dr. Castellano continues to make substantial progress in understanding and treating neurological disorders. His work not only expands scientific knowledge but also significantly improves the quality of life for individuals affected by epilepsy and related conditions. He joined the UPMC Epilepsy Division in 2018 and has since been a valuable part of their team. His research also includes investigating post-traumatic epilepsy in collaboration with other departments, highlighting its prevalence, risk factors, recovery patterns, and electrophysiological biomarkers, with ongoing efforts focused on developing new biomarkers and anti-epileptogenic therapies.
The University of Pittsburgh-Bradford offers robust undergraduate programs providing a strong academic foundation for students interested in exploring fields related to neurology, primarily within the Biological and Health Sciences division. While not a standalone department, the campus features comprehensive coursework in areas like Biology and Psychology. These studies cover essential biological principles, including the structure and function of nervous systems, alongside insights into human cognition and behavior. Students benefit from opportunities for hands-on learning and engaging in undergraduate research projects relevant to neuroscience. This preparation equips graduates well for pursuing advanced degrees or careers in neuroscience, healthcare, or research, often serving as a stepping stone to graduate programs like those offered at the University of Pittsburgh's main campus.
The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford (Pitt-Bradford or UPB) is a state-related college in Bradford, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1963, it is a baccalaureate degree-granting, regional campus of the University of Pittsburgh, conferring degrees in over 40 fields of study. In addition to its focus on undergraduate education, the campus hosts multiple research/teaching units of the University of Pittsburgh, including the Center for Rural Health Practice and the Allegheny Institute of Natural History, as well as the Marilyn Horne Museum and Exhibit Center.