Lab Members

Doris Stoffers, M.D., Ph.D.

Principal Investigator
 stoffers@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

Mina Khosravifar, M.D.

 mina.khosravifar@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

In the lab, my research focus is on understanding the role of the RNA-binding protein PCBP2 in the pancreatic beta-cell using PCBP2 knock-out mouse model. During my free time, I enjoy playing Setar, spending time in nature, exercising, and watching movies.

Sabyasachi Sen, Ph.D.

 Sabyasachi.Sen@Pennmedicine.upenn.edu

In the lab, I study the molecular mechanism of metabolic stress response and glutamine metabolism in beta cells, with a special focus on mitochondrial transaminase "GPT2". In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my cats, cooking, and exploring hiking trails around Philly. 

Matthew Varney, Ph.D.

 matthew.varney@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

In the lab, I am studying the role of the RNA binding protein, poly(C) binding protein 1 (PCBP1), on beta cell survival and function. The PCBPs are a group of RNA binding proteins that regulate mRNA stability, processing, and translation that have not been widely explored in beta cells. In my free time I enjoy walking new areas in and around Philly, trying to stay in shape, and most importantly, spending time with my son and wife.

Xiaodun Yang, M.D., Ph.D.

 Xiaodun.Yang@Pennmedicine.upenn.edu

My projects focus on the roles of PDX1 and its interacting proteins in pancreas development by using both in vivo and in vitro model systems.

Romie Azor, B.S.

 romie.azor@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

I’m a PhD student in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics graduate group.  My project focuses on uncovering the beta-cell specific role of ATF5, a stress induced transcription factor. I am interested in understanding the interplay of distinct transcriptional interactions that could reveal ATF5’s participation in a stress-induced transcriptional complex. Outside of the lab, I enjoy traveling the world, trying new foods, playing soccer, and reading fiction novels.

Matthew Haemmerle, B.S.

 mhaem@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

Matt is a PhD student in the Cell and Molecular biology program in the genetics and epigenetics subtrack. He is fascinated by post-transcriptional regulation and has undertaken navigating the laboratory into an exciting new direction looking at the in vivo influence of PCBP RNA binding proteins on beta cell survival and function. Outside of lab, Matt enjoys experiencing the fine cuisine that Philly has to offer and spending time with friends and family.  

Alexis Oguh, B.S.

 alexisuc@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

I’m a graduate student in the Stoffers lab in the Genetic and Epigenetics group. I like exploring Philly as the honorary Stoffers Lab Yelp, reading, and watching too much reality television. My work focuses on understanding the role of the E3 ubiquitin ligase adaptor protein, SPOP, in the mature pancreatic beta cell. SPOP is a known post-translational regulator to the important beta cell transcription factor, PDX1, and our work suggests that SPOP is necessary for normal beta cell function.

Xander Utecht, B.A.

Lab Manager, Chief of Laboratory Staff, and Research Specialist
 xander.utecht@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

In the lab, I assist others with their various ongoing research projects. I am also a member of the Islet Core, specializing in robotic equipment and liquid handling. In my free time, I enjoy working out, rooting for Philly sports teams, fishing, and hanging out with friends.