Richard Behringer, PhD
Dr. Behringer’s research explores the molecular and cellular mechanisms that shape mammalian embryonic development and organogenesis. His team investigates reproductive organ differentiation, gene regulatory networks, and evolutionary variations across species, using cutting-edge genetic and comparative approaches. By studying diverse models—including wallabies and bats—his lab uncovers fundamental principles of development and reproduction, advancing insights into congenital disorders and evolutionary biology.
Jian Hu, PhD
Dr. Hu’s lab investigates neural stem cell biology and the mechanisms driving malignant gliomas and neurodegenerative diseases. Their work focuses on glioma stem cells, immune microenvironment modulation, and strategies to reverse tumor-promoting immune responses. In parallel, they explore novel approaches to restore myelin integrity in demyelinating conditions, aiming to translate basic discoveries into effective therapies for brain tumors and neurological disorders.
Seung-Hee (Sally) Yoo, PhD
Dr. Yoo studies the molecular and physiological mechanisms of circadian rhythms and their roles in health and disease. Her lab uses integrative approaches combining mouse models and molecular tools to uncover how circadian clocks influence metabolism, cardiovascular health, and lung disease. These insights are paving the way for novel chronotherapy strategies to improve treatment of chronic diseases.
Mark Burish, MD, PhD
Dr. Burish focuses on the intersection of circadian biology and headache disorders, particularly cluster headaches, which exhibit striking daily rhythmicity. His research explores how the brain’s central clock in the hypothalamus influences headache patterns and how circadian-targeted therapies can alleviate symptoms. Through innovative models and collaborations, his work aims to improve understanding and treatment of debilitating headache disorders.
Carmen Dessauer, PhD
Dr. Dessauer investigates the spatial and temporal regulation of cyclic AMP signaling and its impact on heart function, neuronal activity, and chronic pain. Her lab focuses on adenylyl cyclase and scaffolding complexes such as AKAPs, which govern signal fidelity and specificity. These studies reveal new therapeutic targets for cardiac arrhythmias and neuropathic pain, offering promising strategies to restore normal signaling in disease states.
Huda Zoghbi, MD
Dr. Zoghbi’s pioneering research has transformed our understanding of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases, including Rett syndrome and spinocerebellar ataxia. Her lab uncovers the genetic and molecular pathways that drive neuronal vulnerability, revealing novel therapeutic opportunities across disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Through innovative genetics, molecular biology, and cross-species approaches, her work continues to illuminate fundamental brain mechanisms and inspire targeted treatments.
Jeffrey Chang, PhD
Dr. Chang’s research focuses on decoding complex signaling networks that control cell growth and survival, particularly in cancer. By integrating genomics, computational biology, and experimental models, his team identifies critical regulatory modules and pathways that drive tumor progression. This systems-level approach aims to reveal new therapeutic targets and predictive tools for precision oncology.
Ken Chen, PhD
Dr. Chen’s lab develops computational and statistical methods to reconstruct cancer genomes and transcriptomes, providing insights into tumor heterogeneity and evolution. Through large-scale sequencing projects and integrative analyses, his team identifies biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Their work bridges biology, data science, and technology to advance personalized cancer medicine.
Nicholas Navin, PhD
Dr. Navin is a leader in single-cell genomics, developing methods to study tumor evolution and genetic diversity at single-cell resolution. His lab combines cutting-edge sequencing, cytological techniques, and computational models to map cancer progression and identify key drivers of heterogeneity. These discoveries are shaping new approaches for cancer diagnosis and targeted therapy.
Meagan Choates, MS, CGC
Ms. Choates’ research examines how prenatal genetic testing, including non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), is implemented and interpreted in clinical practice. Her work focuses on improving counseling strategies and understanding how genetic information influences patient care. By addressing these critical questions, her research enhances the delivery of personalized and informed prenatal care.
Laurence Court, PhD
Dr. Court’s team is advancing global cancer care through the development of AI-driven tools for radiation therapy planning. Their Radiation Planning Assistant leverages deep learning to automate complex planning processes, improving access to high-quality treatment in low-resource settings. This innovative work is transforming radiation oncology and bringing equitable cancer care to patients worldwide.
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