My group is interested in understanding the pathomechanisms underlying inherited retinal degenerations with the aim of developing therapeutic strategies to prevent blindness. We use animal models und patient-derived cellular models, including fibroblasts, induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived retinal pigment epithelium and iPSC-derived retinal organoids. We characterize the models using complementary methods from biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, including light and electron microscopy and -omics technologies (proteomics, interactomics and transcriptomics). Computational techniques to support the interpretation of our data sets are of great importance. With its multidisciplinary approach and focus on topics that include the quantitative analysis of complex datasets such as single-cell RNAseq, the IQCB is very well suited with the research interests of our group.

Positions held 

Since 2010   
Group Leader, Institute of Molecular Physiology, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Germany

2006-2010   
Research associate, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Germany

2006   
Visiting Scientist: Gene Therapy Centre Gainesville, University of Florida, Florida, USA

2005-2006   
Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz Germany

Education

2000-2004   
Dr. phil. nat., in cancer biology, Johann-Wolfgang von Goethe University Frankfurt a. M., Germany

1992-1999   
Diploma in Biology (Developmental Biology), University of Karlsruhe/Institute of Technology (KIT), Karlsruhe, Germany

1990-1992   
Medical technician, Staedtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Germany