Fernando Pardo-Manuel de Villena

Fernando Pardo-Manuel de Villena is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Genetics at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. He is an Oliver Smithies Investigator and a member of the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. His research focuses on evolutionary genetics, mouse genomics, and the genetic basis of complex traits, leveraging the Collaborative Cross mouse resource to study population genetics and disease mechanisms. He leads efforts to map genetic loci influencing traits like drug sensitivity, viral pathogenesis, and metabolic disorders.

His research interests include meiotic drive mechanisms, genetic variation in inbred mouse strains, and epigenetic regulation. Key projects involve analyzing the evolutionary origins of mouse inbred strains, dissecting the genetic architecture of complex diseases, and investigating host-pathogen interactions using genetically diverse mouse populations.

Recent work highlights his contributions to understanding the genetic underpinnings of post-traumatic epilepsy, peanut allergy severity, and Sarbecovirus susceptibility. He has authored over 200 publications and collaborates with institutions like the Jackson Laboratory and Neogen Corporation. His lab has developed genotyping tools like the MiniMUGA array to improve mouse research rigor.

Scientific recognition includes the Oliver Smithies Investigator title, reflecting his leadership in systems genetics. His lab actively trains postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates in cutting-edge genetic and genomic methodologies.