The Galas lab at the Pacific Northwest Research Institute (PNRI) focuses on computational biology and in developing laboratory technical methods like RNA sequencing. We develop new mathematical tools and methods to analyze the enormous amounts of complex data that are generated from the new technologies of biological research, like the genetic variants of the genome and a wide range of gene expression data.

Specifically, we are developing a first-of-its-kind algorithm based on information theory to find subtle relationships among multiple variables – such as genetic variants, clinical information, ancestry, lifestyle data, and much more. The complex ways in which multiple factors influence one another in biology is the source of the subtle and fine-tuned functions that allow our bodies to function well.

The lab is experienced in finding patterns in a wide range of data types and in working with scientists from around the world. In our collaborations, for example, we are studying child development and its genetics in Asia, cancer prediction with a team in Germany, and Type 1 diabetes with colleagues at PNRI.