The Rhind lab at the University of Massachusetts Medical School focuses on understanding how cells control their growth and division, particularly in the context of size homeostasis and DNA replication. They explore questions such as how cells decide when to divide and how they manage the timing of DNA replication, which are critical for maintaining genome stability and preventing diseases like cancer. Using model organisms like fission yeast, the lab aims to unravel the mechanisms behind these essential cellular processes, which have implications for understanding human health and disease.

Dr. Mary Munson's lab at the University of Massachusetts Medical School focuses on understanding how cells transport materials inside them using small vesicles. The research explores the proteins involved in the fusion of these vesicles with cellular membranes, which is crucial for processes like hormone release and neurotransmission. By studying specific proteins, particularly in the model organism yeast, the lab aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms of vesicle transport and its implications for various diseases.

Dr. Celia A. Schiffer's lab focuses on understanding and preventing drug resistance in infectious diseases and cancer. They explore how mutations in drug targets can lead to resistance and how to design better drugs that maintain their effectiveness. Using a combination of experimental and computational methods, including machine learning, the lab strives to create innovative strategies for drug development that can overcome the challenges posed by rapid evolution of pathogens.

Dr. Paul R. Thompson's lab at the University of Massachusetts Medical School focuses on the study of protein citrullination, a process that can be problematic in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and cancer. The lab aims to develop innovative chemical tools to better understand how this modification affects cell signaling and explore potential new treatments for these serious health conditions. By identifying how citrullination changes protein activity, they seek to uncover its role in disease progression and find targeted therapies.

Dr. Summer B. Thyme's lab at the University of Massachusetts Medical School focuses on understanding and treating Down syndrome, a condition that often leads to intellectual disabilities. Using zebrafish as a model, the lab investigates the genetic factors from human chromosome 21 that contribute to brain development and function. By screening for small molecules that can counteract the effects of these genes, the lab aims to find potential drug therapies to improve outcomes for individuals with Down syndrome.