Postbaccalaureate Fellow

Our lab's long-term goal is to understand how regulatory networks instruct the formation of complex, distinctively-shaped biology structures during embryonic development, such as how bony segments vary and different digits may have a varying number of joints.

We are currently working to identify key 'Shh' gene relay signals and how they relate to late-signaling centers. To do this, we use comparative evolutionary analyses to reveal the regulatory mechanisms underlying these morphology-based adaptations. We also deploy combined genetic/genomic strategies to explore the dynamic, robust nature of Shh-producing cells across the genome.

Recently, we showed that 'Shh' acts as a trigger, not a morphogen, that initiates digit patterning. We discovered that the Shh-producing limb ZPA domain is not a static population, but instead arises from progenitors at the limb border which contribute to ongoing ZPA renewal and characterize progenitor pool regulation. We have also found that the widespread phenomenon of autocrine non-responsiveness in Shh-producing cells is intrinsic and not due to negative-feedback. As such, our lab is examining these mechanistic dicoveries further, as the critical targets of 'Shh' remain unknown.

Prospective applicants should have a strong background in developmental and molecular genetics and/or evo-devo biology. Prior experience with cutting-edge genomic approaches is highly-desirable.

U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply. NIH welcomes foreign nationals with the exception of individuals from this list.