Ryan Hillmer, PhD
Assistant Professor
Locations
- Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy
Contact Information
Education
PhD, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2018
BS, Carroll University, 2012
BS, Carroll University, 2012
Biography
View Ryan Hillmer's publications
Honors and Awards
2019 Achievements
Accepted into the Anatomy Training Program (ATP) offered through the American Association of Anatomists (AAA).
Research Interests
Molecular mechanisms governing retinal neurogenesis
Retinal neurogenesis results in generation of the multiple cell types populating the retina, which are specified from a multipotent retinal progenitor cell (RPC) population. The distinct subclasses of cells generated during retinal neurogenesis have specific cellular functions that ultimately coordinate the conversion of incoming light to signals sent to the brain for further visual processing. Since proper specification of the multitude of retinal cell types generated by RPCs is required for vision, the process of retinal neurogenesis is strictly regulated. Two potential means of regulation over retinal neurogenesis include the Notch and Hippo signaling pathways, which are both active in RPCs. My current research is focused on investigating an interaction between these two signaling pathways in RPCs during retinal neurogenesis using a zebrafish model system.
Retinal neurogenesis results in generation of the multiple cell types populating the retina, which are specified from a multipotent retinal progenitor cell (RPC) population. The distinct subclasses of cells generated during retinal neurogenesis have specific cellular functions that ultimately coordinate the conversion of incoming light to signals sent to the brain for further visual processing. Since proper specification of the multitude of retinal cell types generated by RPCs is required for vision, the process of retinal neurogenesis is strictly regulated. Two potential means of regulation over retinal neurogenesis include the Notch and Hippo signaling pathways, which are both active in RPCs. My current research is focused on investigating an interaction between these two signaling pathways in RPCs during retinal neurogenesis using a zebrafish model system.
Anatomy training
Another aspect of my training as a postdoctoral fellow includes training in anatomy instruction. Through this facet of my postdoc, I work one-on-one with an anatomy instruction mentor to gain dissection and teaching experience to further my knowledge of human anatomy and anatomical instruction. Through this training I have gained experience teaching both medical and graduate students in anatomy, neuroanatomy, neurodevelopment, and histology.