The Florida Chemical Senses Institute is pleased to welcome Dr. Debra Ann Fadool as its newest Associate Director. A leader in chemosensory research and a dedicated mentor, Dr. Fadool brings decades of expertise to this role, along with a passion for fostering collaboration across institutions.
Dr. Fadool’s academic journey began at the University of Florida, where she completed her Ph.D. and conducted research at the Whitney Marine Laboratory in St. Augustine under the mentorship of Professor Barry Ache. There, she studied novel IP3-gated ion channels that transduced odorant information in the olfactory system of lobsters, sparking a lifelong interest in how the brain processes smell.
Dr. Fadool is a Distinguished Research Professor at the Florida State University, where she has led pioneering research on olfactory signaling and metabolism. Her work has contributed to major advances in the field, from uncovering the connection between insulin signaling and the olfactory system, to using CRISPR/CAS9 genome editing and nanoparticle quantum dot drug delivery approaches to modify ion channel activity in the olfactory bulb that induces resistance to diet-induced obesity.
Beyond research, she has played a pivotal role in training the next generation of scientists through directing the FSU Office of Postdoctoral Affairs and serving as the Program Director of the FSU Chemosensory Training Grant Program. As a leader in FSU’s T32 Chemosensory Training Grant Program, she has helped support over 130 Ph.D. students and postdoctoral scholars over the past 30 years. She also developed the “Scholar in Practice” program, which connects students with alumni for career internships.
Now, as she steps into her role at FCSI, Dr. Fadool is excited to bridge the strengths of both UF and FSU, bringing together the talents and expertise of their chemosensory teams. She looks forward to fostering new collaborations, mentoring young researchers, and expanding opportunities for trainees and faculty alike.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Debra Ann Fadool to FCSI—we’re excited to see the connections and innovations she will inspire.