Research

Current Research Interests

My group works on the molecular events that govern the origin and migration of different cell types within the developing Xenopus embryo. To investigate these processes we are using a combination of developmental biology, imaging and chemical genetic approaches. We are also interested in developing Xenopus as a potential tool for in the drug screening and discovery process. We are mainly focussed on looking at the specification, differentiation and migration of Neural Crest cells especially with respect to pigment cell development and melanoma growth.

RESEARCH THEMES

CURRENT PROJECTS

·    Using ATAC-seq approached to indentify regulatory elements important for NC specification

·    Studying the role of epigenetics and regulation of transcriptional elongation in specification of the neural crest

·    Looking at the role of Matrix Metalloproteinases and ADAMTSs in neural crest development and development of the whole organism.

·    Characterising the expression patterns of miRNAs during Xenopus development and looking at their function in neural crest development

·    Characterising the synergistic effects of Leflunomide and MEK inhibitors on melanoma growth

·    Screening small molecule libraries for inhibitors of pigment cell development to gain insight into neural crest and also to identify inhibitors of melanoma growth

·    Developing in vivo toxicity assays for small molecules and nanoparticles

LIFE IN OUR RESEARCH GROUP

We are a dynamic group using the amphibian Xenopus laevis as a model organism to study aspects of cell and developmental biology in a whole animal situation. We use modern methods of embryology and molecular biology in the lab. We have our own lab meetings as well as joint lab meeting with other groups working on developmental biology including the Munsterberg and Grocott labs. We also encourage attendance at seminars in BIO and beyond. Recently Students and Postdocs in the lab have participated in courses and conferences in Europe and the USA.

Wheeler Lab Youtube

PHD OPPORTUNITIES

Click here for current PhD opportunities in Biological Sciences. But feel free to email me to discuss projects outside these areas and alternative sources of funding.

POSTDOCS & FELLOWS 

I am always happy to discuss possibilities for postdoctoral work and collaborations. Possible funding routes include applying for fellowships, e.g. EMBO or EU Marie Curie fellowships, with me acting as sponsor, or grant applications with you as a named postdoc.