David Pearce

David Pearce is a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, leading the Pearce Lab within the Center for Pediatric Research CoBRE. This center fosters collaborative pediatric research across South Dakota and the Upper Midwest, focusing on developmental biology and childhood disease mechanisms.

Education:

• Ph D, Biochemistry, University of Bath, 1989
• BS, Biological Science, University of Wolverhampton, 1986

Research Interests: Dr. Pearce investigates the molecular basis of inherited pediatric neurodegenerative disorders, particularly infantile, late infantile, and juvenile Batten disease. His lab employs mouse and miniature pig models to dissect pathomechanisms, identify therapeutic targets, and evaluate novel treatments, bridging rare disease genetics with translational medicine.

Advising and Grants: He mentors researchers through the Pearce Lab, supported by the Center for Pediatric Research CoBRE grant which provides funding, individualized mentorship plans, and access to core facilities for regional pediatric research initiatives.

Affiliation: The center operates two interdisciplinary cores—Biochemistry and Functional Genomics/Bioinformatics—to advance studies in pediatric diseases using genetic, biochemical, and molecular approaches across model organisms.