My research focuses on DNA damage repair in the germline. In particular, I am interested in sources of DNA damage in germ cells as well as the pathways used to repair the damage. One reason this is particularly important for us to understand is because DNA damage can lead to mutations and when present in germ cells, these mutations can be passed onto offspring. Hence, germline mutations provide the material on which evolution acts but are also the cause of many genetic diseases. In light of this, it is known that germ cells have much fewer mutations than somatic cells but the mechanistic basis for this is poorly understood and what my work is focused on. In addition to this, human infertility and early menopause studies have identified a host of DNA damage repair deficiencies as being behind these reproductive diseases. This further highlights the unique importance of DNA damage repair in germ cells.
