Dr. Piedrahita’s laboratory is primarily interested in the behavior of stem and progenitor cells in vitro and in vivo, and the development of large animal models of use in human and veterinary regenerative medicine. Towards this end, his research combines techniques in functional genomics, stem cells, cell biology, embryo manipulation, and molecular biology. The primary purpose of this position is to assist in analyzing and further developing a new gene edited pig to study the role of LGR5 cells in the lung. Both during development and their involvement in diseases such as IPF, COPD and asthma. The candidate should have a strong background in cell biology, organoid biology, molecular biology and be interested in lung physiology/biology.

Duties and Responsibilities
Assist and lead projects related to the continued improvement of the LGR5 pig model. Contribute to gene editing of swine. Lead the analysis of LGR5 stem cells and help elucidate their role in lung repair after injury. Assist in the analysis of single cell RNAseq data to understand the developmental origin of lung LGR5 cells. Utilize organoid models to unravel the function of LGR5 cells in the lung. Participate on other laboratory projects as needed.

Participate in mentoring of other graduate and undergraduate students.

Cell biology, molecular biology, cell culture.

Organoid biology, lung physiology, gene expression analysis (RNAseq and scRNA seq).
Ability or interest in working with swine as a model system.

N/A

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