ESDR: What was the purpose of your visit?
Dr Alexandros Onoufriadis: The aim of my research visit at Dr Cho’s laboratory was to undergo training in single-cell sequencing and get exposed to the computational analysis that is required for single-cell sequencing datasets. My research visit also provided the foundation for a long-term collaboration between our two groups which will allow us to better understand skin fibrosis and scarring.
ESDR: How was the experience of your visit and what key things did you take back to your department?
Dr Alexandros Onoufriadis: My research visit was very valuable and the host lab made me feel as if I was home. My time at UCSF helped me familiarise myself with the laboratory techniques that are required for single-cell sequencing. More importantly, it made me aware of sample processing as well as the downstream bioinformatic analysis that are required to perform single-cell sequencing in our laboratory.
ESDR: What is your research focus over the coming year?
Dr Alexandros Onoufriadis: Besides my long-term research interest in gene identification for rare skin diseases, I will continue to work on keloid pathogenesis. My research plan would be to generate pilot data that will form part of an application for external funding on single-cell sequencing approaches with a focus on the unmet need of abnormal wound healing.
ESDR: Any other thoughts you wish to share?
Dr Alexandros Onoufriadis: I would like to express my gratitude to ESDR for giving me the opportunity to enhance my research skills but also for letting me experience research life in an American institution.
