RatnapriyaLab

I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at Baylor College of Medicine, where my research focuses on the genetics of retinal and macular degenerative diseases. I integrate genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenetic data to identify causal genes and mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration and vision loss. I earned my Ph.D. in Human Genetics from JNCASR, India, and completed postdoctoral training in ocular genomics at the National Eye Institute. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and exploring the outdoors. Meet PI

I did my PhD in Bioinformatics from NIPGR, New Delhi, India in 2022 and joined RatnapriyaLab in March 2023. My reserch intrests include the coding, non-coding RNAs, and multiomic/integrative analysis. Currently I am focusing on genomics study of IRD and AMD diseases.

I am a Ph.D. biologist with expertise in endocrinology, physiology, molecular genetics, evolution, and bioinformatics. My research explores how molecular and endocrine signaling pathways regulate development, tissue function, and physiological responses. I completed my doctoral research at Colorado State University, where I investigated the molecular mechanisms regulating molting in decapod crustaceans. My background bridges experimental and computational biology, with experience in RNA-seq, transcriptomics, gene expression analysis, comparative phylogenetics, molecular biology, and hormone quantification. My broader research experience includes developmental biology, insect physiology, metamorphosis, and mosquito transcriptomics. I am passionate about understanding how changes in gene regulation and molecular signaling translate into physiological outcomes. I bring an interdisciplinary approach to biological research, along with experience in teaching, student mentorship, and research training.

I graduated from Rice University with a Master's degree in Computer Science. I have joined the RatnapriyaLab in September 2026. I am passionate about translating my knowledge in Computer Science into the field of biology and medicine.

I am a freshman studying bioengineering at Rice University, serving as an undergraduate researcher here at the RatnapriyaLab! I am passionate about understanding the genetic basis behind common conditions as a part of the effort of developing “personalized medicine.” In particular, I am translating this passion to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), where I am analyzing single-cell sequencing data of the retina to construct a picture of the diverse cell types at play in AMD. I am so excited to continue my work at the RatnapriyaLab!

I am first-year medical student at Baylor College of Medicine. I did my graduation from Dartmouth College in 2023, with a major in Quantitative Social Science and a minor in Public Policy. My background as an ophthalmic assistant sparked an early interest in eye health, and I am very excited to contribute to research at the intersection of genetics and ophthalmology.