Post date: 06/01/19
The Brooks Lab research program integrates clinical, genetic and basic developmental data to uncover the molecular basis of blinding diseases of children. Its ultimate goal is to improve patient diagnosis/genetic counseling and to devise potential treatment/prevention strategies for these diseases. Presently, we have two major areas of interest: 1) the genetics of uveal coloboma and 2) treatments for oculocutaneous albinism.
Uveal coloboma is a potentially blinding congenital ocular malformation caused by failure of the ventral optic fissure to fuse during eye development in the first trimester. Although the embryology of coloboma has been understood for decades, its genetics are still largely not understood. Using a combination of human genetics, animal models (zebrafish and mice) and cell biology techniques, we seek to identify genes important for optic fissure closure and put them in developmental pathways.
Oculocutaneous albinism is an autosomal recessive conditional characterized by reduced melanin pigment in the hair, skin and eyes. Importantly, patients with albinism have reduced best-corrected visual acuity due to foveal hypoplasia in the retina. The reason why reduced melanin content during the eye during the development causes incomplete formation of the fovea is not well understood. We seek to understand foveal development and to devise interventions that may promote foveal development in people with albinism.
At any given time, the Brooks lab usually has two posdoctoral fellows, two staff clinicians, a staff scientist and post-baccalaureate students. We work as an integral part of the Ophthalmic Genetics & Visual Function Branch, which includes both clinicians and basic scientists, through joint lab meetings, conferences and journal clubs.
Roles and Responsibilities
Use zebrafish, mouse and cell culture models to understand the role of candidate genes in optic fissure closure. Mentoring students, maintaining clear and complete scientific documentation of experiments, writing the first draft of manuscripts and presenting at national/international meetings is expected. Our goal is to help launch the fellow well-equipped into the next phase of his/her academic career. Opportunities abound to obtain additional formal training through coursework and seminars as well as to cultivate early, independent collaborations.
About You
Candidates must have a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. degree awarded within the past 3 years and a record of at least one first-author publication in a high-quality peer-reviewed international journal. Experience working in a zebrafish system and live cell imaging is a plus.
Application
Please submit a letter of interest along with a c.v. and the names/contact information of three individuals willing to be contacted as references.
Contact Dr. Dr. Tiziana CogliatiBack to All Jobs and Recruitment
