Millie Rogers is a second-year graduate student at the University of Miami. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, where she studied the genetics underlying cochlear detoxification in the mammalian inner ear. She continues her research in genetics at University of Miami, where she is currently investigating the role of a newly identified human disease gene in degenerative neuromuscular phenotypes. Since beginning graduate school, she has taught general biology lab to approximately 30 students/class, leading undergraduates in learning and practicing experimental design and laboratory skills. She is also the proud mentor of three undergraduate students in her lab, whom she has trained in various laboratory techniques related to her research.

Principal Investigator: Julia Dallman

Fellows: Rebecca Menendez & Simone Thom

Undergraduate Fellow Project:

This project will use CRISPR/Cas9 to test whether disrupting zebrafish versions of a candidate human disease gene can produce disease-relevant phenotypes. Mutations are induced at the targeted gene locus, using designer IDT sgRNA and Cas9. Resulting phenotypes are quantified using a high-speed camera to track swimming performance and fluorescent microscopes to visualize neurons. Our lab uses zebrafish as our model organism because of their fully sequenced genome, high fecundity and transparency during embryogenesis. SURFiN fellow(s) accepted into our lab will learn a variety of practical lab skills, including familiarity with stable transgenic zebrafish, microinjection, genotyping, high-speed imaging and microscopy. They will also be trained in working with zebrafish under IACUC protocols. No prior laboratory experience is needed, only a strong work ethic and a desire to learn.