Chancellor's Fellow
The Roslin Institute / University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
As a Chancellor’s Fellow (Assistant Professor) at the Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, my research explores how embryonic tissues organize during development, focusing on the molecular and mechanocellular influences that shape these processes. My group takes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating cell and developmental biology with mathematics and biomechanical engineering. Using the chick embryo as our primary model—alongside other avian, mammalian, and reptilian species—we aim to uncover the fundamental principles governing tissue patterning, understand how disruptions can lead to congenital disorders, and apply this knowledge to engineer correctly patterned tissues in culture.
My scientific journey began with a PhD in chicken primordial germ cell biology, where I investigated the role of PRDM transcription factors in germ cell development and established new avian transgenic technologies. During my postdoctoral research, I became fascinated by how periodic patterns emerge in embryonic tissues. Initially, I studied mammalian hair follicle formation, discovering that distinct patterning systems—previously thought to be mutually exclusive—operate hierarchically to determine follicle arrangement. Later, I led two projects that revealed how limb developmental genes regulate fingerprint formation and how a Turing-like patterning system explains why human fingerprints are unique.
Building on these foundations, my current research further investigates periodic pattern formation, now focusing on the cartilaginous elements of the trachea. To address these questions, we are developing advanced transgenic chicken models that allow us to dissect gene and protein function with greater precision. By uncovering the mechanisms that govern these developmental processes, we aim to provide new insights into congenital tracheal birth disorders and contribute to future regenerative medicine strategies.
Disclosure information not submitted.
Periodic Patterning of Cutaneous Placodes in Mammalian Skin
Monday, March 31, 2025
4:00 PM - 4:30 PM US PDT
