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Student Faculty Collaborate
Michael Zimmermann, PhD

Michael T. Zimmermann, PhD

Director, Computational Structural Genomics Unit, Linda T. and John A. Mellowes Center for Genomic Sciences and Precision Medicine

Locations

  • Mellowes Center

Research Areas of Interest

  • Chromatin
  • Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone
  • Gene Expression Profiling
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Genetic Variation
  • Genomics
  • Human Genetics
  • Molecular Dynamics Simulation
  • Multiprotein Complexes
  • Mutation
  • Mutation, Missense
  • Neoplasms

Leadership Positions

  • Assistant Professor of Bioinformatics - Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin
  • Director, Computational Structural Genomics Unit, Linda T. and John A. Mellowes Center for Genomic Sciences and Precision Medicine
  • MCW Program and Course Director, Joint Program in Bioinformatics between Marquette University and Medical College of Wisconsin
  • MCW Research Computing Center, Faculty Advisory Committee; Chair (elected, 2022-2024), Co-Chair (elected, 2020-2022), and Member (2020-Present)
  • Strategic Steering Committee, Data Science Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin
  • Visiting Assistant Professor – Department of Mathematics, Marquette University

Research Interests

  • Rare and undiagnosed genetic diseases of children and adults
  • Mechanistic understanding of chromatinopathies, defined as human diseases driven by alteration of epigenetic enzymes and the dysregulation of chromatin organization and
    regulation, with a specific focus on the human BAF complex – a SWI/SNF family chromatin remodeling enzyme
  • Molecular modeling and protein complex prediction for interpreting mechanisms of human diseases (spanning heritable, non-heritable, and cancer)
  • Translating our approaches from rare disease and rare cancers to our Community-Oriented and Genomics-Informed research program. In this new program, “Everyone is
    oof-One.” That is, as datasets grow, we are identifying that everyone has unique and distinct genetic differences. New approaches are needed to better understand the health
    relevance of N-of-one variation.
  • Our lab stands at the forefront of biomedical innovation, fusing cutting-edge genomics with advanced computational modeling to unlock the secrets of human health and disease. We've pioneered novel approaches to understanding cancer biology, immune system function, and rare genetic disorders, leading to breakthroughs in personalized medicine research. Our team has identified crucial genetic variants driving rare diseases, providing hope to families worldwide, developed powerful computational tools for analyzing complex biological data, and uncovered new mechanisms in cancer development. Through our multidisciplinary approach, we're not just advancing scientific knowledge - we're paving the way for more precise diagnostics and targeted therapies that promise to transform patient care across a spectrum of conditions.

Publications

Recruitment and Collaboration

  • Join us in decoding the human genome to revolutionize medicine! Our lab is at the cutting edge of genetic research, using advanced computational techniques and
    innovative biological approaches to unravel the mysteries of human health and disease. We seek passionate collaborators and brilliant minds to help translate genetic data
    into life-changing medical breakthroughs. Whether you're a computational or molecular biology expert or data wizard, there's a place for you in our diverse team. Together,
    we can pioneer new diagnostic tools, develop mechanistic insights down to the one-of-a-kind genetic variations, and pave the way for truly personalized medicine. Don't just
    watch the future of healthcare unfold—help us create it. Join our mission to transform genetic codes into better lives for patients worldwide!

  • Our lab's groundbreaking research is reshaping the landscape of modern medicine and genetics. By unraveling the intricate relationships between genes, diseases, and
    drug responses, we're paving the way for a future where medical treatment is tailored to each individual's genetic profile. Our discoveries shed light on the molecular
    mechanisms behind various cancers and rare genetic disorders, leading to more accurate diagnoses and empowering research towards targeted therapies. The
    computational tools we've developed are improving our ability to predict disease risks and treatment outcomes. Our cancer genomics research advances precision oncology
    while our findings offer new hope and potential treatment avenues for patients with rare diseases. By bridging the gap between computational analysis and biological
    research, we're pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and training the next generation of interdisciplinary biomedical researchers. Ultimately, our work aims to
    translate complex genetic data into practical, life-changing improvements in patient care, bringing us closer to a future where personalized medicine is the norm.