RESEARCH OVERVIEW
The Franz-Odendaal bone development lab studies the patterning and development of the vertebrate skeleton. We use a cellular and molecular approach to understand developmental processes. Key projects are:
- understanding the evolution and development of ocular system in vertebrates (2006-present). Funded primarily by NSERC. This project uses the chicken embryo and fish larvae as animal model organisms.
- understanding the effects of simulated microgravity and vibration exposure to skeletal development (2021-2025). Funded by the Canadian Space Agency. This project uses zebrafish as a model organism.
- understanding tracheal cartilage development (2022). Funded Research Nova Scotia and the Lung Association of NS. This project uses the chicken embryo system.
Our laboratory at Mount Saint Vincent University has received several large infrastructure and equipment grants. The most recent is a new Canadian Foundation for Innovation grant with matching funds from Research Nova Scotia (2023-2024).
Video of the arrival of our random positioning machine on a sunny day in the Fall of 2023.
Our Current and Past Research Funders…
