CAROT

Venkata R. M(Murthy) Chavali, Ph.D.
Research Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology
 vchavali@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

Venkata R. (Murthy) Chavali, Ph.D. is the Principal Investigator and currently a Research Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology, in the Scheie Eye Center. He has strong background in molecular biology, genetic, proteomic and functional genomic studies. His lab is employed state-of-the-art tools, in vitro and in vivo models and working on methodologies to establish “disease in a dish”, models for studying blinding disorders. Dr. Chavali's is pursuing studies to understand the pathobiology of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG). 

Naqi Haider, M.Sc, M.L.
Research Specialist
 nhaider@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

Naqi Haider has a Master’s degree in Neuroscience from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and an additional Master’s in law from the University of Pennsylvania Law School with a focus on intellectual property. Before joining UPenn, Naqi served as adjunct faculty teaching courses in biomedical sciences. Naqi's research is focused on studying Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Glaucoma using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived retinal cultures, lipid efflux studies, animal model studies and molecular biology techniques. Naqi’s research interests include neurodegenerative diseases, neurodevelopment and the intersection of science and law. Apart from his research interests Naqi enjoys exploring museums, art history and poetry. He spends his spare time in community service and with his family.

Sonika Rathi, MSc. Ph.D.
Postdoctoral Fellow
 Sonika.Rathi@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

Sonika Rathi pursuing her Postdoctoral fellowship in Dr. OBrien/Chavali's lab at the University of Pennsylvania. Sonika has done her Ph.D. on ocular diseases from L V Prasad Eye Institute, India. Her research interest includes understanding the molecular pathogenesis of complex ocular diseases and applying this knowledge to uncover therapeutic applications in Glaucoma and AMD. Apart from research, she enjoys music, dance and traveling.