Senior Staff

We are engaged in algorithms and software tool development for the prediction of RNA secondary structure and their applications to understand mechanisms of regulatory non-coding RNAs, with a recent focus on microRNAs and small bacterial RNAs.

We develop new approaches to calibration and use advanced statistical tools to minimize matrix effects and improve the accuracy and sample throughput of spectrochemical methods such as MIP-OES, ICP-OES, and ICP-MS to determine trace elements in a wide variety of samples of public health interest.

We focus on the targeted, ultra-trace measurement of emerging organic contaminants in New York State's drinking water supplies through both regulated and research-based mass spectrometry methods.

We focus on the development and validation of assays to detect pathogens and toxins associated with bioterrorism or food-borne disease. We utilize methods such as real-time PCR, whole genome sequencing, and mass spectrometry for rapid detection of agents.

We are interested in the mechanisms underlying resistance of M. tuberculosis to major TB drugs and in the development and validation of molecular assays involving whole genome sequencing for rapid detection of drug resistant tuberculosis.

We focus on method development of radiochemical analyses for use in routine and emergency response scenarios.

We study transcriptional reprogramming and regulatory networks in mycobacteria controlling resistance to genotoxic stress, hypoxia, nutrient starvation and exposure to antibiotics.

The Division of Laboratory Operations oversees the Wadsworth Center's operations at five facilities in the Albany area, totaling ~900,000 square feet of space and over 210 acres of real estate.

We use innovative molecular genomic approaches to address fundamental questions of mycobacterial biology. Our findings shed new light on the evolution and function of mycobacterial genomes, accelerating tuberculosis research.

We use a variety of techniques to develop and validate rapid methods for the detection of waterborne pathogens, or their indicators, prior to the outbreak of disease. 

We utilize an array of mammalian genomic tools to discover genetic modifiers that influence multifactorial diseases. These susceptibility loci are targets for diagnosis and treatment of similar disorders in humans.

Biomonitoring of human exposure to environmental chemicals; biomarkers of health effects; sources and pathways of human exposure; environmental distribution, food chain transfer and fate of organic pollutants; consumer product analysis; overdose and wastewater surveillance

We use targeted and genome-wide approaches to identify and characterize mutations/genes involved in diseases affecting children, including conditions screened by the NYS newborn screening program and birth defects.

We seek to reveal the molecular mechanisms that enact error-free segregation of chromosomes during cell division. Advanced microscopy and laser ablations allow us to probe the behavior of individual chromosomes and spindle poles.

We conduct multidisciplinary research to understand water and indoor and outdoor air pollution and their impact on human health.

The Transgenic and Gene Knockout Core produces and analyzes transgenic and gene knockout mice that can be used as animal models of human disease.

My specific area of expertise within the Bioinformatics Core is bacterial genomics, evolution and phylogeny.