The Artinger lab is a highly collaborative research laboratory that is focused on understanding of the molecular and genetic mechanisms involved in the development of the neural crest. Neural crest cells are born at the neural plate border, and have the extraordinary ability to retain stem cell-like characteristics. Once specified, they migrate through the embryo and give rise to a diverse array of derivatives, including peripheral neurons and glia, pigment cells and craniofacial cartilage, which form most of the vertebrate face. Thus, the neural crest is an attractive model system to study the gene regulatory networks involved in cell fate determination, migration, differentiation and in disease. 

Mentoring statement: I strive to maintain a healthy environment for all lab members. This includes promoting a culture of collaboration and positive communication. My philosophy is that we all have strengths and weaknesses and my role as a mentor is to foster your strengths and help improve your weaknesses. My expectations are the everyone is respectful of others, regardless of background, and are responsible citizens and help each other. I expect independent thinking and organization as I am not always in the lab but am always available for discussion!