University of Toronto Mississauga — Dept. of Psychology & Brain Sciences
Decoding the molecular language of memory —
one mark at a time.
Epitranscriptomics • Epigenetics • Memory • Neurological Disease
The EpiLab — 2025
What we study
Dr. Brandon Walters — Epitranscriptomics
The Walters Lab investigates how chemical modifications to RNA — particularly m6A (N6-methyladenosine) — are deployed during the formation of new memories. We also explore how dysregulation of these marks contributes to neurological and psychiatric conditions, including depression and cognitive decline.
m6A / Epitranscriptomics Memory DepressionDr. Iva Zovkic — Epigenetics
The Zovkic Lab focuses on histone variants — specialized proteins that package and regulate DNA — and their role in diseases of memory. A central focus is understanding how histone variant dynamics go awry in Alzheimer's disease, with an eye toward identifying new therapeutic targets.
Histone Variants Epigenetics Alzheimer's DiseasePrincipal Investigators
The EpiLab is a joint laboratory at UTM led by two PIs whose research intersects at the intersection of epigenetics, memory, and disease. We share space, ideas, and occasionally coffee.
Dr. Brandon Walters
Assistant Professor, Biology • PI, Epitranscriptomics
"How does the brain use RNA modifications to write new memories — and what breaks down in disease?"
B.S. Biology, Purdue • Ph.D. UAB • Postdoc: St. Jude & SickKids
Fun fact: Survived a plane crash.
Dr. Iva Zovkic
Assistant Professor, Psychology • PI, Epigenetics
"What role do histone variants play in memory — and can targeting them slow Alzheimer's disease?"
Ph.D. Psychology, Brock • Postdoc: University of Alabama Birmingham
Fun fact: Karaoke Queen.