November 20, 2011

Maria Morasso

Dr. Maria Morasso describes her research on mouse models of ectodermal dysplasias—a group of skin disorders caused by genetic mutations—to illustrate more generally how basic research can lead to clinical applications. She emphasizes that the end goal in basic research is always the better understanding of a process or pathology with the intention of using that knowledge to improve quality of life. Morasso also emphasizes that science is not done alone, saying that researchers need mentors and they need to work in teams.