HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – The Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine has named Habibeh Khoshbouei, Pharm.D., Ph.D., chair of the department of biomedical sciences, effective Oct. 1. 

Khoshbouei joins Marshall University from the University of Florida College of Medicine, where she served as professor in the department of neuroscience and vice chair of research. An internationally recognized neuroscientist, her research focuses on dopamine signaling, neuroimmune interactions, addiction and neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease.  

“Dr. Khoshbouei brings an exceptional record of scientific achievement, collaborative leadership and mentorship to Marshall,” said David Gozal, M.D., M.B.A., Ph.D. (Hon), vice president for health affairs at Marshall University and dean of the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine. “Her expertise in neuroscience and translational research, combined with her passion for innovation and education, will help further strengthen our biomedical sciences programs and expand opportunities for impactful research collaborations across our institution.” 

Khoshbouei has led and contributed to numerous federally funded research initiatives throughout her career and has contributed an extensive body of published work examining the relationship between dopamine transmission, inflammation and neurologic disease. Khoshbouei earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Tehran and her Ph.D. in pharmacology from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. She served as research faculty at Vanderbilt University and Meharry Medical College before her time at the University of Florida. 

“Marshall University's commitment to discovery, education and the health of this region is exactly the environment where meaningful science happens, and I am excited to contribute to that mission while working alongside an outstanding faculty to grow our research programs and deepen our impact," Khoshbouei said. "Joining Marshall is an opportunity I find exciting, not just because of the strength of the faculty and the programs already in place, but because of what we can build together. My career has been defined by collaboration across disciplines and a commitment to mentoring the next generation of scientists. I am eager to bring that same energy to the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine and to advance research that makes a real difference for the people of Appalachia and beyond.” 

As chair of biomedical sciences, Khoshbouei will provide strategic leadership for the department’s education, research and faculty development initiatives while supporting interdisciplinary collaboration and growth in nationally funded biomedical research. She will oversee a department of nearly 50 full-time faculty members and help advance the school’s mission of elevating education, driving discovery and championing wellness to improve health outcomes across Appalachia.  

The department of biomedical sciences provides foundational science education for medical and graduate students and supports research programs spanning neuroscience, pharmacology, physiology and related disciplines. 

Date Posted: Wednesday, July 8, 2026