Parts Group
Function of human DNA and its variation
Research
Our goal is to understand how human DNA functions in different contexts. To do so, we assay important aspects of cell state, create accurate and useful quantitative models of the readouts, and map the determinants of variation using genetic screens across a range of genetic or environmental backgrounds.
We are a combined computational and laboratory based research group. In the lab, we develop tools for genetic perturbations, and use synthetic biology and genome engineering to create cell lines that report on various aspects of cell state, from signaling pathway activity to cell cycle stage. We measure changes to reporter activities via growth competition, single cell RNA sequencing, as well as by fluorescence-based readouts. Computationally, we model the salient aspects of data generating processes to understand the underlying biology. We create generative models of large scale genetic screens and their outputs, and cast it in software.
Approach
The following four statements describe our approach:
1) We get things done. We start projects with clearly defined goals, and publish both positive and negative results of the ones that pass the pilot stage. We deliver to our collaborators.
2) We work on important problems. We pick projects based on how much they impact our understanding of human cells, characterize the variation of gene function across individuals, or influence how others work.
3) We succeed as a team. We have a diverse mix of backgrounds and skillsets, complementing each other with our strenghts.
4) We are excited about science. We read broadly, discuss latest developments, and keep up to date both with the depth of our field, and the entire breadth of genomics.
Core team

Claudia Feng
PhD Student

Mr Gareth Girling
Advanced Research Assistant

Elin Madli Peets
Advanced Research Assistant

Juliane Weller
PhD Student
Previous team members

Dr Felicity Allen
Postdoctoral Fellow

Luca Crepaldi
Staff Scientist

Seri Kitada
Visiting Worker

Dr Michelle McRae
Senior Research Assistant/Laboratory Manager

Danesh Moradigaravand
Senior Bioinformatician

Dr Daniele Muraro
Senior Bioinformatician

Ananth Pallaseni
PhD Student

Kasia Tilgner
Visiting Scientist

Dr Yan Zhou
Postdoctoral Fellow
Related groups
Programmes and Facilities
Partners
We work with the following groups
External
Cancer Dependency Map
The Cancer Dependency Map aims to find a targetable dependency in each cancer cell.