Issam Al Diri
Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology
Co-director of the Systems Biology Module
When I’m not in the lab demanding more controls and replicates, I enjoy playing and watching soccer. I’m a big fan of Man City and Real Madrid.
Abdullah Khan
Research Technician and Analyst
As the lab’s computational biologist, I specialize in developing and implementing bioinformatics pipelines for the analysis of single-cell and epigenomic datasets. My work involves data processing, integration, and visualization to uncover patterns of gene regulation and cellular heterogeneity. I collaborate closely with experimental researchers to interpret complex datasets and generate biologically meaningful insights that guide ongoing projects and hypotheses. Outside the lab, I enjoy playing sports and hanging out with friends.
Emily Davis
Ph.D student-Human Genetics
My work centers on understanding the early stages of retinal development using mouse models as a system to dissect transcriptional regulation. I investigate how specific transcription factors orchestrate the balance between activation and repression of target genes, influencing cell fate specification and tissue organization. Outside of lab, I enjoy reading, attending concerts, and cycling along the Pittsburgh river trails.
Kimiasadat Golestaneh
Ph.D student-Human Genetics
I study the role of the transcription factor Sox2 in retinal development, with particular emphasis on how it modulates the chromatin landscape of retinal progenitor cells. By integrating molecular biology and genomic approaches, I aim to uncover how Sox2 governs neurogenesis. Outside the lab, I enjoy spending time with my fluffy cats, Mocha and Latte, traveling, playing the piano, and playing pickleball.
Kamakshi Mehta
Postdoctoral Associate
My research focuses on identifying and characterizing regulatory elements that drive the formation and maturation of retinal ganglion cells. By combining molecular biology techniques with genomic and epigenomic profiling, I aim to elucidate how disruptions in these regulatory networks contribute to retinal disorders and neurodegeneration. Ultimately, my goal is to bridge the gap between gene regulation and disease mechanisms in the visual system.
Varbi Mridha
Ph.D student-Human Genetics
My research investigates the dynamic interplay between transcription factors and the enhancer landscape that governs retinal cell fate decisions. Using genomic, epigenomic, and functional assays, I aim to map how regulatory networks coordinate gene expression programs during differentiation. In my free time, I love getting lost in puzzles or a good book, painting, exploring new places, and experimenting with fresh recipes in the kitchen.
Brendon (Bren) Nicholson
Research Technician
I contribute to multiple ongoing projects across the lab, providing technical and logistical support to ensure smooth experimental operations. My responsibilities include maintaining and managing mouse colonies, preparing reagents and solutions for various assays, and assisting lab members in the execution of molecular and cellular experiments. I also help coordinate workflows to promote efficiency and consistency across research activities.
Zeina Abdelsalam
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Isabella Baptista
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Mia Costello
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Lukas Pilarski
Undergraduate Research Assistant
