Dr. Kanaan grew up in Canton, MI, and obtained a BS in Neuroscience, Psychology, and Sociology from Central Michigan University (Mt. Pleasant, MI). He then went to Chicago, IL, to obtain a PhD in Neurological Sciences from Rush University Medical Center and stayed in Chicago for his postdoctoral training with Dr. Lester Binder at Northwestern University. His interests outside of the lab include photography, woodworking, and fishing.

Dr. Kanaan’s laboratory researches neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia and Parkinson’s disease, as well as the role of aging-related changes in neurodegenerative disease. Studies in the Kanaan lab focus on the molecular mechanisms underlying degenerative diseases and exploring therapeutic strategies. The Kanaan lab uses a combination of experimental approaches, including in vitro and in vivo model systems, to tackle scientific questions. Regardless of his specific basic science endeavors, Dr. Kanaan aims to conduct research that will ultimately improve the lives of the people affected by these devastating diseases.

Michigan State University Translational Neuroscience Profile