Migraine headache is one of the most debilitating disorders in the world and treatments are insufficient. The Sowers laboratory studies the neurocircuitry underlying migraine and post-traumatic headache. Our preclinical laboratory focuses heavily on the sensory abnormalities associated with migraine and post-traumatic headache, including photophobia, spontaneous pain and touch hypersensitivity. Our lab’s research uses functional MRI, optogenetic and DREADD approaches to better understand the circuits contributing to those sensory abnormalities. We recently identified the deep cerebellar nuclei as possible sensory integration centers underlying sensory abnormalities in migraine. We are a VA associated lab and part of the VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss with a special emphasis on Veteran related problems in headache. Post-traumatic headache is similar to migraine and affects about 50% of Veterans who saw combat in war zones. Our hope is to one day identify brain regions that can be manipulated in humans to treat headache. Our promotion of a multi-disciplinary and collaborative approach to tackle these important questions in headache medicine offers trainees room to grow and become wonderful independent scientists.
Dr. Sowers was recently featured in Medicine Iowa, a publication of University of Iowa Healthcare featuring stories of research and education at Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine. View the article here: https://medicineiowa.org/fall-2025/levi-sowers-shedding-light-migraine-and-post-traumatic-headache
Iowa Neuroscience Institute Events
Many Keys, One Conversation: Schizophrenia, Neuroscience and Creativity
This event brings together storytelling, dance, science, and dialogue to destigmatize schizophrenia and mental illness. Through personal narratives, artistic expression, cutting-edge research, and expert insight, attendees will discover the power of vulnerability, resilience, and community support in mental health. When we share our stories, we heal together
5:30 - 6:00 PM | Reception with Hors d'oeuvres & Poster Session
6:00 - 6:15 PM | Michael Judge: A Brother's Perspective
6:15 - 6:45 PM |...
Carver College of Medicine Events
Women In Micro & Immuno Coffee Hour
Join us for the Women in Micro & Immuno Coffee Hour. It is the monthly coffee hour on the second Monday of the month from 11 a.m. to noon in 1289 CBRB. Enjoy coffee, pastries and contribute to the discussion!
This is open to ALL — students, staff, postdocs, and faculty interested in promoting women in science.
Speakers change monthly. Contact: jessica-tucker@uiowa.edu for details.
BMB Research Workshop
The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology holds research workshops featuring internal speakers on Tuesdays, 12:30-1:20pm. For Spring 2026, these will occur in 2117 MERF. Presentation titles are not publicly available due to the use of unpublished research. Individuals interested in attending workshops or being added to the email list should contact the office at biochem@uiowa.edu.
Jan. 20: open
Jan. 27: open
Feb. 3: open
Feb. 10: open
Feb. 17: Tyler Woodward, PhD Candidate, 4th Year...
Pain Interest Group Workshop - Adriana Della Pietra, PhD
Comparison of Phyto- and Endocannabinoid Effects in Migraine Models
Adriana Della Pietra, PhD
Postdoctoral Researcher in Dr. Andrew Russo's Lab
ACB Seminar Series - Dr. Pierre Coulombe
Dr. Pierre Coulombe, Professor and Chair of the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology from the University of Michigan, will present a seminar titled "Sequential Expression of Keratins Regulate Progenitor and Differentiating Keratinocytes in Healthy and Diseased Skin."
Neuroscience and Pharmacology Workshop - Emily Hagan and Tehreem Haider
The role of neonatal testosterone dysregulation on early development and behavior in wild-type mice
Emily Hagan
Pharmacology Graduate Student
Dr. Sarah Ferri's Lab
Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Genetic Etiology, and Research Approaches
Tehreem Haider
Pharmacology Graduate Student
Dr. Stefan Strack's Lab