WELCOME TO OUR LABORATORY

As the Director of the Toxicology Research Laboratory, with over 27 years of experience in pharmacology, toxicology, and clinical pathology, Mr. Lindeblad brings extensive scientific and regulatory expertise to preclinical research and program oversight.  Throughout his career, Mr. Lindeblad has authored more than 20 scientific publications and abstracts and has contributed to over 300 technical study reports spanning irradiation, acute, subchronic, chronic, and developmental preclinical efficacy and safety studies. His research experience includes radiation and pharmacokinetic (PK) studies across a wide range of laboratory species, including mice, rats, rabbits, dogs, minipigs, hamsters, and non-human primates (NHPs).  Mr. Lindeblad has played a leading role in developing radiation models at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for more than 15 years, including the widely used rabbit model of Acute Radiation Syndrome (ARS). These models have been instrumental in the evaluation of medical countermeasures under BARDA contracts.  In addition to his leadership in radiation studies, Mr. Lindeblad has conducted behavioral studies and evaluated cellular therapeutics in both small and large animal models. He served as Study Director on over 75 GLP and non-GLP studies for private industry and federal agencies, including contracts from BARDA, NIH-NCI, and NIH-NIAID.  Appointed Laboratory Director in 2019, Mr. Lindeblad now leads facility operations and serves as GLP Management across a wide range of preclinical studies. In this role, he oversees study conduct, ensures compliance with GLP regulations, supports study directors administratively, and maintains coordination across all operational and quality assurance functions. His dedication to scientific rigor and regulatory integrity continues to support the advancement of safe and effective therapies.  Outside of work, Matt enjoys spending time outdoors, particularly fishing and exploring new places. He has also coached youth football and baseball for many years, reflecting his passion for mentorship and community involvement.

A distinguished expert in toxicology and preclinical drug development, bringing over 40 years of experience to the field. Throughout his career, he has served as Principal Investigator on numerous government-sponsored programs, collaborating with esteemed organizations such as the NIH, NCI, NIAID, NIDA, BARDA, and DOD. Dr. Lyubimov has played a pivotal role in advancing preclinical drug development for both emerging biotech firms and leading pharmaceutical companies. As a former Director of TRL and now a trusted Scientific Advisor, he has been instrumental in the development of anticancer therapies, treatments for substance use disorders, anti-AIDS medications, antibiotics, imaging pharmaceuticals, cancer chemoprevention drugs, etc. His expertise also extends to cutting-edge innovations, including anticancer and other nanomaterials and a wide range of biologics for private industry, government agencies, and academic institutions. A recognized leader in regulatory strategy and preclinical research, Dr. Lyubimov participated in preparation of numerous pre-IND and IND submissions to FDA and continues to support TRL as Scientific Director, leveraging his deep industry knowledge to drive scientific advancements. While his passion for research knows no bounds, he also enjoys unwinding with boating/fishing excursions and a spirited game of tennis.

Associate Director and Study Director at UIC-TRL with over 15 years of experience in general toxicology, pharmacokinetics, analytical chemistry, and biomarker assessment. She has a strong interest in translational model development and qualification. Dr. Banerjee has led numerous PK/PD, efficacy, and IND-enabling toxicology studies, as well as interdisciplinary drug discovery efforts within a GLP-regulated environment for regulatory submissions. She earned her M.Sc. from Gujarat University and her Ph.D. from Nirma University in Ahmedabad, India. Her research has been featured in over 30 national and international scientific abstracts and publications, and she has presented at various scientific forums. A longstanding member of the Society of Toxicology and the Safety Pharmacology Society, she is passionate about advancing modern medicine. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking elaborate Indian meals, spending time with family, and unwinding with a good book by the fire.

Key member of the UIC-TRL team since 2006, specializing in analytical and bioanalytical method development, validation, and drug/metabolite analysis in biological matrices. He is highly skilled in (ultra)-high performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, ensuring compliance with U.S. FDA GLP regulations. With over 20 years of experience in protein biochemistry, molecular cell biology, and (bio)analytical chemistry, Dr. Zakharov has authored more than 30 peer-reviewed publications, presented at international conferences, and contributed professional reports for sponsors. He earned his M.Sc. in Chemistry (Physical Chemistry) and Ph.D. in Biology (Biochemistry) from Moldova State University. He is a member of FEBS, AAPS, ASMS, ACS, and IMA. In his free time, he enjoys mushroom foraging and hiking with family and friends.

Dedicated Supervisor committed to fostering the professional growth of her team and preparing them for successful careers in preclinical research. With over 25 years of GLP experience, she has expertise in all aspects of preclinical study execution across small and large species, radiation research in rodents and larger species, and developmental studies in rats and rabbits. She earned her B.S. in Biochemistry from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2001. In her free time, she enjoys spending time at the Temple and crocheting.

Study Director at TRL-UIC, where he has been a key team member since 2006. With over 30 years of experience in general, neurobehavioral, and reproductive toxicology, as well as PK/PD studies across various species, he is highly skilled in analytical and bioanalytical method development and validation. As a Study Director and Senior Toxicologist, Dr. Kabirov leads GLP and non-GLP toxicology studies for pharmaceutical discovery and development, including numerous chemopreventive and anticancer agents. Dr. Kabirov earned his M.D. from Perm State Medical Academy and his Ph.D. in Toxicology from St. Petersburg State Medical Academy. He has presented at over 40 national and international conferences and has authored more than 90 abstracts and publications in peer-reviewed journals and books. He is a member of the Teratology Society and the Society of Toxicology.