Decoding Cell Fate Decisions in vivo.
Led by Dr. Ruth Williams at the University of Manchester, our group investigates the regulatory mechanisms that govern lineage segregation at the Neural Plate Border (NPB) during early embryogenesis. We focus on how signalling pathways and transcription factors establish this critical interface between neural and non-neural tissues, and how they guide cell-fate decisions to ensure proper contributions to neural crest and cranial placode progenitors.
We use the chicken embryo as our model system, combining classical embryology with single-cell 'omics and molecular profiling to resolve the signalling inputs and regulatory interactions comprising gene regulatory networks at single-cell resolution.
Training the next generation of developmental biologists is the most important thing we do. Trainees co-design their own projects and are supported to publish first-author work. We welcome summer students, undergraduate and visiting scientists.
We thrive on collaboration — working closely with groups across Manchester and internationally to combine embryology, genomics, and computational biology. Get in touch if our interests overlap.