Dr. Sally Horne-Badovinac's lab at the University of Chicago focuses on how groups of epithelial cells migrate together and assemble their surrounding environments during tissue development and repair. Using fruit flies as a model organism, the lab investigates the local interactions between cells that promote coordinated movement and how these movements help to form structures like the basement membrane, which supports organs. This research is important for understanding processes such as wound healing, organ development, and diseases related to tissue structure.

Dr. Benjamin Glick's research lab at the University of Chicago focuses on understanding how the Golgi apparatus, a vital organelle in cells, regulates the traffic of proteins. By studying both yeast cells and mammalian cells, the lab investigates how proteins are organized, sorted, and recycled within the secretory pathway. Through advanced imaging techniques and genetic tools, they aim to unravel the molecular mechanisms that govern these processes, which are crucial for proper cell function.

Dr. Xin He's research lab focuses on understanding how genetic variations affect RNA modifications in immune cells, which may contribute to human diseases. Their work specifically looks at a type of RNA modification called N6-methyladenosine (m6A), which plays a crucial role in regulating RNA processing. By investigating these genetic variants, the lab aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for immune-related disorders.

Dr. Margaret Lise Gardel's research lab focuses on how cells interact with mechanical signals to influence their behavior, such as growth and movement. Through a combination of techniques, including live imaging and mathematical modeling, the lab investigates how the structures within cells, particularly the cytoskeleton, respond to forces. This work is significant for understanding not only basic biology but also potential treatments for diseases like cancer and heart conditions.

Dr. Carole Ober's lab at the University of Chicago focuses on understanding asthma and allergic diseases, which affect many people around the world. The lab aims to identify genetic factors that contribute to these diseases and to explore how they impact different types of immune cells in the body. By doing this research, they hope to uncover new drug targets that can lead to better treatments for patients.

Dr. Xiaochang Zhang's lab focuses on understanding how alterations in the SYNGAP1 gene contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism. The researchers are investigating ways to correct the genetic malfunction by manipulating RNA splicing processes. By studying laboratory mice and human-derived neurons, they aim to develop innovative strategies that could potentially reverse the effects of genetic mutations associated with intellectual disabilities.

Dr. David Kovar's research lab at the University of Chicago focuses on studying the actin cytoskeleton, which is crucial for cell shape, movement, and division. By examining how cells organize various actin networks using a limited supply of actin proteins, the lab seeks to uncover the complex interactions that dictate the structure and function of these networks. The research employs model organisms like fission yeast and C. elegans to explore the molecular mechanisms governing self-organization of actin filaments important for cellular processes.

The research lab led by David Pincus at the University of Chicago focuses on understanding how cells adapt to changes in their environment over time. By studying various cellular responses, including how cells manage stress and alter their gene expression, the lab aims to uncover insights that could lead to new therapies for diseases like cancer and neurodegeneration. The research integrates molecular biology, genetics, and data science to develop predictive models of cellular behavior.

Dr. Jonathan P. Staley's lab focuses on understanding how genetic variations influence gene regulation and splicing in humans. They develop innovative methods to examine RNA splicing and its role in gene expression, aiming to uncover the biological significance of non-canonical splicing events. Their research has implications for understanding genetic contributions to complex traits and diseases.