Our laboratory is focused on understanding the formation and early functional development of complex sensory systems within the human body. Our ultimate aim is to utilize this knowledge to create innovative cell- or gene-based treatments for sensory disorders. Recently, we have pioneered some of the first “organ-in-a-dish” models of the human inner ear and skin, which faithfully replicate the development of specialized epithelial cells, sensory nerves, hair follicles, and other tissue types. We are applying these models to investigate a range of conditions, including Usher syndrome, Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), and the developmental origins of pain and touch sensation. A major area of innovation in the lab involves the use of microfluidic and “on-chip” technologies to enhance tissue maturation and support therapeutic screening. To comprehensively investigate these models, we employ a diverse range of techniques—including gene editing, single-cell genomics, and functional imaging—allowing us to probe sensory organoid systems from multiple angles and at multiple levels of resolution.