Vanderbilt Genetics Institute
The mission of the Vanderbilt Genetics Institute is to train the next generation of scientific leaders and promote better diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of human disease through genome interrogation and molecular discovery of the expressed genome.
VGI Research in the News
Keloid risk genes open door to better therapy
VGI members identify genes linked to keloids, raised scars growing beyond the original wound boundary that can cause pain and disfigurement. This research opens opportunities for the identification of drug target treatments and highlights the power of Genome-wide association studies to elucidate the biology underlying common complex diseases.
VGI community gathers at YMCA Lodge for its annual scientific retreat
This year, the VGI community gathered with colleagues to discuss the theme: “Resilience by Design: Thriving in a Shifting Scientific Landscape.” Topics of discussion included the landscape of AI in science with specific applications for research, ethics of AI in research, with various breakout sessions on science entrepreneurship and alternative funding sources, among others. The retreat concluded with lunch and an open invitation for participants to practice their archery skills!
Large-scale study uncovers 57 genetic hotspots into stuttering origins
Members of the Vanderbilt Genetics Institute led the largest genetic analysis of stuttering, which has demonstrated a clear genetic basis for the speech disorder, highlighting neurological pathways of risk. The study was published July 28 in the journal Nature Genetics.
The accompanying video is produced by the research team to explain the results of the study.
Lisa Bastarache discusses motivation behind her team’s recent AJHG publication
A research team led by investigators at VUMC published a paper characterizing trends in clinical genetic testing. The work began when VGI member Lisa Bastarache realized no process existed to systematically curate genetic test results and that removing this gap could help patients and drive science.
Jennifer Below named director of Vanderbilt Genetics Institute
As the new director of the VGI, Dr. Below is charged with leading the institute into its next decade of innovation, fostering multidisciplinary collaboration, advancing genomic discovery and building on its international reputation for excellence.
Education
The VGI has a rich history of training students and researchers to explore scientific questions in genetics, with an emphasis on human disease.
The PhD program in Human Genetics (HGEN) provides students with a solid foundation for a career in human genetics research and teaching.
During postdoctoral training in a VGI investigator's lab, trainees will gain practical and rigorous experience where they will be encouraged to think critically as well as work independently and as a part of a team.
Trainee Spotlight
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