Research
What we work on
We apply both precision gene editing and large-scale CRISPR screening in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to explore mechanisms underlying human development. Specifically, we are interrogating the protein-coding regulators of pancreatic development and β cell function. The pathways that regulate these processes can be exploited for therapeutics to prevent and reverse diseases such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In a second, closely related area, we are developing approaches to discover developmental enhancers, and to understand the epigenetic regulation of noncoding regulatory elements with a focus on DNA methylation.
Pancreatic Development & β Cell Biology
We study the transcriptional and epigenetic programs that drive pancreatic lineage commitment and β cell maturation, using hPSC differentiation as a tractable human model.
Genome-Scale CRISPR Screening
We develop and apply large-scale CRISPRi and knockout screens to systematically identify genes and regulatory elements controlling cell identity across developmental transitions.
Epigenetic Regulation & DNA Methylation
We investigate how noncoding regulatory elements — particularly DNA methylation valleys and developmental enhancers — are established and maintained to control gene expression.