Principal Investigator/Program Director (Last, First, Middle): Hewett, Sandra J. A. Project Summary: My laboratory seeks to elucidate the molecular and biochemical mechanisms that underlie both cell death and protection as well as the normal physiological function of the CNS with a focus on astrocyte-neuron interactions and the role of System xc-. I am recognized at both the national and international levels for my work using innovative in vitro and in vivo models and tools, several of which my laboratory developed. My research program has enjoyed uninterrupted funding from the NINDS since 1997. While a faculty member at the University of Connecticut Health Center (UCHC - 1996-2011), I successfully trained three Master’s students, two PhD students, and two MD-PhD students─ the latter two performed their graduate training in my laboratory—and two post-docs. Since arriving at Syracuse (2011), I’ve successfully trained three Master’s students, one PhD student and three post-docs, exclusive of the applicant. I also have mentored 29 undergraduates —nearly half of whom are from groups underrepresented in STEM — in my laboratory during the academic year and summers since joining SU, many of whom have matriculated into top M.S and PhD programs [e.g., UPENN (3), U Miami, Drexel, Tufts, and Duke]. I have been successful in facilitating and/or securing NIH or other competitively awarded support for my trainees’ career development. My PhD students have gone on to prestigious post-docs [e.g., Yale (2), UCSD, UCLA, UCSF]. All of my trainees remain in academic, industrial science or medicine. I was recently informed that I have received a 2020 NINDS Landis Award for Outstanding Mentorship, which is the basis for this supplement. PHS 398/2590 (Rev. 09/04, Reissued 4/2006) Page Continuation Format Page