Trainor Lab Members

Investigator: Paul Trainor, PhD

Research in the Trainor laboratory focuses on the role of neural crest cells in vertebrate development, evolution and disease. We seek to understand the mechanisms that regulate neural crest cell formation, migration, and differentiation and to apply this basic knowledge to better understand the etiology and pathogenesis of birth defects as well as develop therapeutic avenues for their prevention. We are particularly interested in craniofacial development and currently study neurocristopathies such as Treacher Collins syndrome, Acrofacial Dysostosis – Cincinnati type, cleft lip and palate, and Syngnathia. However we also study the roles of neural crest cells in congenital disorders of the heart and gastrointestinal tract, such as persistent truncus arteriosus and Hirschsprung disease respectively. We use mouse and zebrafish as our primary genetic models, but also utilize chameleons, chickens and lizards in our experimental studies.

Postdoctoral Research Associate: Lori Maili, PhD

The goal of my research is to gain a better understanding of the genetic factors playing a role in orofacial clefts, the most common presentation of congenital craniofacial anomalies. My project will examine key cellular and molecular mechanisms during development that, when disrupted, lead to abnormal palatogenesis and cleft palate phenotypes. The ultimate goal of this work is to improve the identification of at-risk individuals and inform future therapeutic approaches.

Senior Administrative Manager: Marvin Thomas, Jr., MHA, MBA

Senior Research Technician: Mohammad Hossain

With more than 26 years of biomedical research experience in molecular biology, mouse genetics, skeletal dysplasia, cancer biology, histology, and laboratory operations, I bring extensive technical expertise and a collaborative approach to the Trainor Lab. My research interests focus on craniofacial development and the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying craniofacial anomalies, with the goal of contributing to discoveries that advance therapeutic strategies and improve patient outcomes.

Lab Manager: Jacalyn MacGowan

I bring more than 30 years of combined experience in laboratory operations, animal husbandry, and biomedical research support. I have a strong background in developmental biology and neurobiology research, using zebrafish and genetically engineered mouse models. At the Trainor Lab, I will continue using my expertise to optimize daily laboratory operations and support the lab’s critical investigations into the genetic mechanisms driving craniofacial anomalies and pediatric developmental disorders.