My research interests involve investigating the genetics of traits in the horse that are economically and medically important and are useful models for other species. I am currently investigating the genetics of several pigmentation phenotypes and ocular disorders; among these are the second most common tumor in the horse, limbal squamous cell carcinoma as well as the most common cause of blindness in horses, equine recurrent uveitis. The primary goal of my research program is to develop tools that will assist animal breeders in making informed mating decisions and assist clinicians in identifying horses who are at risk for ocular disorders enabling earlier detection and better prognosis.
