Joan Barau

Dr. Joan Barau serves as Group Leader at the Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB) in Mainz since 2019, affiliated with Johannes Gutenberg University. His research focuses on transposable elements and their impact on mammalian genome regulation during development and evolution.

His laboratory investigates how transposon biology influences genome stability through epigenetic mechanisms, particularly DNA methylation in germ cells and pluripotent stem cells. Key research areas include:

• piRNA-guided DNA methylation pathways involving DNMT3C
• Evolutionary arms races between transposons and host defense mechanisms
• Intergenerational transmission of epigenetic information
• Transposon-driven phenotypic variation (e.g., Agouti epiallele)

Recent publications reveal a strong emphasis on epigenetic control of transposons in germline development, with significant contributions to understanding DNMT3 enzymes and their role in genomic stability. His work bridges molecular genetics, evolutionary biology, and epigenetics using mouse models and advanced genomic techniques.

Dr. Barau mentors a multicultural research team with emphasis on scientific passion and career development, actively seeking motivated researchers for projects in transposon biology and epigenetic inheritance.