Developmental enhancers identified by open chromatin profiling in Drosophila embryos and imaginal discs.

How does a single genome produce hundreds of distinct cell types, and how do cells “remember” who they are?

Research in the McKay lab is focused on understanding how gene expression is precisely controlled during development. We investigate how the same DNA sequence gives rise to diverse cell types and body parts by studying how transcription factors, chromatin structure, and epigenetic mechanisms regulate access to the genome.

Using Drosophila as a model system, we combine genomics, genetics, and imaging to uncover the molecular mechanisms governing how cell identities are determined and maintained over time.

We are actively recruiting trainees (PhD students & postdocs) interested in chromatin biology, gene regulation, and functional genomics. Contact Dan.