Jacob Corn

Jacob Corn is Professor of Genome Biology at ETH Zurich, where he leads the Corn Lab within the Institute for Molecular Health Sciences. His research focuses on developing and applying next-generation genome editing technologies to understand fundamental biological processes and develop therapies for human genetic diseases. He teaches multiple courses including Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, RNA-Biology, and CRISPR-Cas Genome Engineering in Human Cells.

Prof. Corn's research interests center on the intersection of DNA repair mechanisms and genome engineering tools. His lab investigates how cells repair DNA damage, maintain hematopoietic stem cells, and use ubiquitin signaling to propagate cellular signals. The Corn Lab employs a multidisciplinary approach combining genome-wide functional genomics, computational modeling, in vitro biochemistry and biophysics, and mechanistic cellular biochemistry to unravel complex cellular phenotypes. Their work spans from fundamental biological discovery to translational applications for curing genetic disorders.

Analysis of Prof. Corn's recent publications reveals a strong focus on improving the precision and efficiency of genome editing technologies, particularly CRISPR-based systems. His research demonstrates particular expertise in DNA repair pathways and their manipulation to enhance homology-directed repair. The publications show consistent exploration of therapeutic applications for hematopoietic stem cells, with specific attention to sickle cell disease and Fanconi anemia. There's also significant work on ubiquitin signaling pathways and their role in cellular quality control mechanisms.

Prof. Corn's lab collaborates extensively with clinicians and industry partners through projects including EDITSCD, geneTIGA, and T-Fitness, which are part of EU-Horizon and EIC-Pathfinder initiatives. These collaborations focus on developing safe and efficient next-generation genome editing technologies for gene and cell therapy products. His work bridges basic science and clinical applications, with numerous publications demonstrating therapeutic potential in human hematopoietic stem cells.

The Corn Lab maintains a strong presence in both fundamental research and translational applications, with particular emphasis on hematopoietic stem cell engineering, DNA repair mechanisms, and the development of novel genome editing tools. Their work on CRISPR off-target detection (DISCOVER-seq) and improving editing efficiency through manipulation of DNA repair pathways represents significant contributions to the field. The lab actively engages in technology development while maintaining focus on biological understanding and therapeutic applications.