PhD Dissertation: From Variants to Pathways: Interrogating the Genetic Architecture of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Dr. Waksmunski’s postdoctoral research centers on genetic epidemiology, bioethics, and science communication. Specifically, she is applying statistical and translational research to primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), which has devastating consequences for individuals, families, and their communities. Studying the genetic architecture of this and other common, age-related eye disease may uncover novel genetic loci and biological pathways disrupted in individuals with POAG or other age-related conditions. This is especially important to consider across diverse populations who present with varying incidence of POAG.
Beyond identifying genetic factors for POAG, it is important to consider and articulate the implications of research findings in clinical and community-based settings. Her work also includes assessing and addressing the values and perceptions of the individuals with whom she and her colleagues are working to set a foundation for the translational applications of this work.
Dr. Waksmunski was recently awarded a Visual Sciences Training Program (T32) training grant from CWRU