Rebecca A. Wingert

Rebecca A. Wingert is the Elizabeth and Michael Gallagher Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Notre Dame, where she also serves as Director of Graduate Studies and Chair of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. Her research focuses on the genetic and molecular mechanisms of renal stem cells in kidney development, regeneration, and disease.

Research Interests: The Wingert Lab investigates how renal stem cells contribute to nephron formation, homeostasis, and regeneration after injury. Her work addresses fundamental questions in developmental biology, stem cell biology, and organogenesis, with implications for understanding birth defects and chronic kidney diseases. Using zebrafish models, her lab explores conserved genetic pathways in vertebrate kidney development.

• Developmental Biology
• Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology
• Genetics & Genomics
• Molecular Biology
• Nephrology and Kidney Disease
• Rare and Neglected Diseases (e.g., Non-Ketotic Hyperglycinemia)

Recent Research Trends: Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on transcriptional regulation (e.g., Tfap2a, Irx2a, Emx1), prostaglandin signaling, ciliogenesis, and nephron segmentation. Her lab uses zebrafish to model human renal diseases and uncover conserved mechanisms of nephrogenesis and repair. There is a recurring emphasis on metabolic regulation (e.g., PGC-1α) and injury response pathways.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• Gallagher Family Professorship in Stem Cell Biology

Advising and Grants: As Director of Graduate Studies, Dr. Wingert plays a central role in mentoring graduate students in the Department of Biological Sciences. While specific grant funding is not listed, her sustained productivity and leadership roles suggest active external support for her research program. She advises graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in her lab, fostering training in developmental genetics and renal biology.

Labs and Research Teams: The Wingert Lab at the University of Notre Dame utilizes zebrafish as a model system to study kidney development and regeneration. The lab integrates forward and reverse genetics, chemical screening, and molecular imaging to dissect nephrogenesis and disease mechanisms. Her team collaborates across disciplines to model rare diseases and explore regenerative pathways.