Joanna Smeeton

Columbia University

In January 2020, Joanna started her lab as part of the Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine as well as the Columbia Stem Cell Initiative at Columbia University in New York. Work in her lab leverages zebrafish models to identify the stem cells and molecular signals driving robust repair of articular cartilage and regeneration of joint-supporting ligaments with the ultimate goal being the development of translational strategies for joint repair. Joanna was the recipient of a K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award from the NIDCR that laid the groundwork for her independent research program and a NIH Director’s New Innovator Award in 2022 that currently supports her lab’s work in whole joint regeneration.