Our research interests are in the cellular and molecular pathways that underlie pattern formation in the vertebrate embryo. We are particularly interested in how cells begin to acquire specific cell fates and morphologies early in development.  Our most recent focus has been on the formation and differentiation of the musculature system. The vertebrate model system that we work with is the African clawed frog, Xenopus laevis. This system lends itself well to the study of embryology because the aquatic frog can be easily reared in a laboratory environment, the females lay hundred of eggs, the eggs are easily fertilized and development can be observed in a culture dish.