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Principal Investigator
Lisa Goodrich Postdoctoral Fellows Austen Sitko Lauren Kreeger Gabriel Enrique Romero Joy Franco Zack DeLoughery Isle Bastille Mariah Hazlett Graduate Students Olubusola Olukoya Taylor Copeland Katelyn C. Boulanger Cynthia Moncada-Reid Jessica Dixon Yi-Chia Huang Summer Research Students Melanie Andrade-Muñoz Staff Sydney Rees Collier Ryan Merrow Former Lab Members |
Research Interests:
I am interested in the intricate processes through which cells interpret genetic blueprints to construct and refine specialized machinery essential for their roles. For my thesis, I am studying the molecular mechanisms of gene regulation within spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs). As the primary neurons that transduce sounds from the cochlea into signals for auditory perception in the brain, SGNs capture frequency, intensity, and timing of sounds with exceptional clarity and speed. My research builds on foundational work examining the roles of transcription factors cMaf and Mafb in SGN heterogeneity and hearing function. I am particularly interested in how these transcription factors interact with and bind to DNA, resulting in gene regulatory networks that influence synaptic development and give rise to the diverse array of SGN subtypes. By using advanced molecular biology techniques to explore these transcription factors' roles, my aim is to broaden our understanding of auditory neurobiology, specifically how cellular diversity contributes to the nuanced roles each SGN subtype plays in the broader context of hearing. Fun Facts:
What fictional universe would you like to be a part of? The world of Pandora What is a superpower you wish you had? On Pandora: the ability to manipulate the elements. On Earth: teleportation.. to save money on flights |
