Charles A. Alexander Professor, Molecular Biology and Genetics
Andrew Grimson is the Charles A. Alexander Professor of Biological Sciences in the Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics. Dr. Grimson is a member of the Graduate Field of Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology and the Graduate Field of Genetics, Genomics and Development. The Grimson lab focuses on post-transcriptional gene regulation, in particular the identity and function of animal microRNAs and other small RNAs.
Education
Doctorate 2004 Department of Genetics, University of Wisconsin - Madison
Bachelor of Arts 1997 Department of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin (TCD)
Recent Research
My laboratory investigates post-transcriptional gene regulation. We have two areas of emphasis: first, the function of small RNA regulatory molecules (chiefly microRNAs), and second, the identification and characterization of novel cis-regulatory elements within mRNAs. These research areas represent my long-standing interest in the post-transcriptional regulation of mRNAs. As a graduate student, I investigated the NMD mRNA decay pathway, and as a postdoctoral fellow, I focused on miRNA target prediction and small RNA evolution. Our work typically combines high-throughput experimental and computational genomics, together with traditional experimental approaches. Ongoing projects include both fundamental studies in post-transcriptional regulation, for example: mechanistic characterization of novel regulatory pathways we have found; together with investigations into biological roles for post-transcriptional regulation, for example: investigating roles for small RNAs in the mammalian immune system.
Courses Taught
BIOMG 8369: Foundations and Frontiers in Cellular and Molecular Biology - I
BIOG 4990: Independent Undergraduate Research in Biology
BIOMG 7860: Research Seminar in Genetics and Development
Thirteen faculty members in the College of Arts & Sciences were recently honored with endowed professorships approved by the Cornell Board of Trustees, continuing the College’s priority to recognize and support faculty excellence.
Paula Cohen, associate vice provost for life sciences, is leading an eight-year, $8 million, multi-institution grant to untangle the complex genetic rulebook for how sperm develops.
