The Kim lab focuses on the regulation of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. In particular, we want to understand the mechanisms by which conserved small RNAs – such as the endogenous small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and microRNAs – control animal development and mediate the epigenetic inheritance of their silencing signals. Additionally, we investigate the post-transcriptional regulatory functions of novel and non-canonical RNA-binding proteins throughout development, in multiple tissues, and in response to dynamic environmental conditions.

To achieve these research aims, we employ innovative genetic, molecular, and functional genomic methods, in addition to proteomic, microscopy, and computational methods. Our primary model organism is the nematode C. elegans. We also explore questions in the budding yeast S. cerevisiae and in mammalian cell culture when these systems offer experimental advantages that we can exploit. Our ultimate goal is to decipher the complex regulatory networks of small RNAs and RNA-binding proteins and how they contribute to overall gene regulation during animal development and disease.

The Kim lab is actively recruiting undergraduate (strong preference will be given to first and rising second year students) and graduate students as well as postdoctoral research fellows. Please contact John directly if you are interested in joining our lab.