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The lab investigates how brains and nervous systems develop and function. We aim to understand molecularly how neurons build synapses, which are specialized junctions that support rapid neuronal communication. During brain development, approximately 100 trillion synapses are built, and we continue to build synapses daily throughout adult life. The location and properties of these synaptic connections fundamentally determine neuronal function. We seek to understand how synapses are formed and function at the molecular and cellular level to advance a bottom-up understanding of the brain and identify avenues for the regeneration of synapses in neurodegenerative diseases. Our approach to these questions includes using live-animal super-resolution imaging of synapse formation, in vitro biochemical reconstitutions, and genetics, particularly CRISPR/Cas9. We primarily use the model organism C. elegans, a nematode worm with a well-defined nervous system containing 302 neurons that create approximately 7000 synapses. With these tools, we are currently investigating synaptic cell adhesion signaling pathways and the role of liquid-liquid phase separation of core synaptic proteins in the conserved mechanisms of synapse formation.
Georgia Institute of Technology • Atlanta, GA
Teaching and conducting research in the field of biological sciences.
Department of Computer Science: GRE scores are optional for Fall 2026.