The University of South Carolina has named Kim Tieu the Peter and Bonnie McCausland Distinguished Chair in Neuroscience, a newly established endowed chair created to advance neuroscience research, education and public impact across the state and beyond. 

The distinguished chair position was established through the continued philanthropy and vision of Bonnie and Peter McCausland and the McCausland Foundation, whose longstanding support has helped elevate neuroscience research and education at USC. 

Tieu is an internationally recognized neuroscientist whose research focuses on the mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson’s disease. Tieu joins USC with decades of experience in neuroscience and neurodegenerative disease research, including leadership roles at leading global universities.  

"At a time when brain health is emerging as one of the defining challenges in science and society, Dr. Tieu’s appointment positions the university to accelerate breakthroughs and train the next generation of researchers and clinicians,” said Mary Anne Fitzpatrick, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. “As the Peter and Bonnie McCausland Distinguished Chair in Neuroscience, Dr. Tieu's chairship represents both excellence in research and a deep commitment to public impact that is only possible when visionary support meets unyielding commitment to the people of South Carolina."  

The McCauslands have played a transformative role in expanding neuroscience research opportunities at USC. Their support helped establish the McCausland Center for Brain Imaging in 2006, providing faculty and students access to advanced technology for studying brain health while also supporting clinical work through Prisma Health. They also created a fund to support neuroscience research grants for faculty and students. 

The new distinguished chair continues that legacy by creating additional opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, research growth and student mentorship in one of the fastest growing areas of science and the fastest growing undergraduate major at USC. 

“Investing in research that helps us better understand how the brain works and what drives disease creates the foundation for new treatments and improved outcomes for patients,” said Thomas Hodges, dean of the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences. “Dr. Tieu’s work exemplifies the connection between scientific discovery and impact. We are thrilled to welcome him to the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, where he will advance neuroscience research, expand opportunities for students and strengthen our capacity for neuroscience education.” 

Tieu’s research has focused on understanding the biological pathways involved in neurological disorders and identifying potential therapeutic targets for neurodegeneration. He has led multiple major federally funded research projects, including a $6.6 million National Institutes of Health grant investigating neurotoxicity and potential therapies for Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. Most recently, he served as professor and former chair of the Department of Environmental Health Sciences at Florida International University.  

As the endowed chair, Tieu will help expand USC’s neuroscience research enterprise while supporting collaborative efforts across disciplines focused on improving brain health outcomes. 

"Joining the University of South Carolina as the Peter and Bonnie McCausland Distinguished Chair in Neuroscience is both an honor and an exciting new chapter in my career,” Tieu said. “What attracts me most to USC is its strong investment and commitment to neuroscience, neurological diseases and interdisciplinary collaboration. This endowed chair offers a unique opportunity to build upon USC’s existing strengths and work alongside outstanding colleagues to advance innovative and impactful research.” 

The endowed chair will provide support for research initiatives, student opportunities and scientific collaboration as USC continues strengthening its role as a leader in neuroscience research and education. 

The McCausland College of Arts and Sciences is home to a growing network of researchers and programs dedicated to advancing discoveries in neuroscience, brain imaging and neurological health. Through partnerships across the university and clinical collaborations throughout the state, USC faculty and students are working to better understand the brain and improve lives through research, innovation and education.