My current research is focused on statistical methodologies involved in genetics/genomics including microarray analysis, genetic association studies, proteomics, qRT-PCR analyses, and genetic correlations. I work closely with Dr. Boris Tabakoff and Dr. Paula Hoffman by providing statistical support for their research. We look for candidate genes using rodent model and human data for addiction, depression, and anxiety related traits. We do this by integrating genomic, transcriptomic, and phenotypic data in a systems biology approach. In particular, we are involved in the study of genetical genomics in rodent models. Genetical genomics is the study of genetic determinates (polymorphisms within DNA sequence) of mRNA levels. We use this data to identify candidate genes whose transcript level is not only associated with a particular phenotype but is also associated with the genomic location that controls the phenotype.
I am also part of the statistics, informatics, and programming team which created and maintains an online database and processing tools utilized by a wide range of researchers in the US and around the world for genomic in silico experiments in mice and rats.