TCB Members Selected for Prestigious Advanced Gene Mapping Course at Rockefeller University

We’re excited to share that Ayobami Alimi (graduate student) and Dr. Osahon J. Asowata (postdoctoral scholar) were selected to attend the prestigious Advanced Gene Mapping Course at Rockefeller University, held from January 27–31, 2025.

This intensive training program, led by world-renowned experts in human genetics, focused on state-of-the-art approaches in gene mapping, statistical genetics, and ancestry-informed risk prediction. The skills gained are directly aligned with the goals of our ongoing R01 project, which aims to improve polygenic risk prediction for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) in African and African-descent populations.

Training Highlights:

• Hands-on workshops in statistical genetics and variant interpretation

• Specialized instruction in ancestry-aware modeling for genetic risk

• A guest lecture by genetics pioneer Dr. Jurg Ott

• An interactive session on research ethics led by Wayne Patterson

  
  

In addition to technical skills, the course provided valuable opportunities for networking and professional development—expanding our team’s capacity to lead innovative and equity-focused genomic research.

Why It Matters

By building expertise in gene mapping and risk modeling, Ayobami and Osahon are helping advance our lab’s mission to develop more accurate, inclusive tools for glaucoma screening, diagnosis, and prevention. Their participation is an important step toward addressing health disparities in vision care and ensuring our research continues to reflect the diversity of the populations most impacted by POAG.

Congratulations, Ayobami and Jeffery—we’re proud of your accomplishments and grateful for your continued contributions to Team Cooke Bailey!