Justin McDonough, Ph.D.

Associate Director

Specializes in precision genome editing of human induced pluripotent stem cells, develops and optimizes stem cell models, and leads a service lab providing custom-engineered models for JAX researchers.

In my role, I specialize in advancing precision genome editing for human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). My focus extends to providing JAX researchers with tailored CRISPR-edited hiPSC lines, optimized through meticulous CRISPR protocols ensuring both high efficiency and throughput.

Heading a dedicated team of scientists, our mission is to engineer and deliver top-tier stem cell models to JAX researchers. My commitment extends to rigorous quality control measures, ensuring the excellence of both new and edited stem cell lines.

I also serve as a project manager for the iPSC Neurodegeneration Disease Initiative (iNDI). Collaborating closely with iNDI's PI, Dr. Bill Skarnes, our focus involves building a substantial collection of meticulously controlled and high-quality iPSC lines, alongside isogenic controls.

Justin McDonough on Orcid

Education and experience

Education


Yale University School of Medicine
Postdoctoral fellow
Adv: Dr. Craig Roy
2008-2017

University of North Carolina School of Medicine
Ph.D., Microbiology & Immunology
Adv: Dr. Miriam Braunstein
2001-2007

James Madison University
B.S., Biology
1996-2000

Experience


Cellular Engineering Service, The Jackson Laboratory
Associate Director: 2020-present
Scientist, Genome Editing: 2017-2020

Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, Yale University
Associate research scientist
2013-2017

Yale University School of Medicine
Research Assistant
2000-2001