DrChee Kiang Ewe

Phenotypic plasticity—the capacity of organisms with a given genotype to develop alternative phenotypes—is pervasive and plays a crucial role in organismal survival and fitness; however, its molecular basis remains poorly understood. Non-coding small RNAs, in association with Argonaute proteins, are particularly adept at driving rapid, precise, and, importantly, reversible changes in gene expression, making them attractive candidates for coordinating phenotypic plasticity.

My research integrates molecular genetics, genomics, and biochemistry to address how small RNA/Argonaute complexes integrate environmental cues to coordinate complex gene regulatory outcomes across different tissues during stress and development.

As individual life courses arise from complex interactions between genetic function and environmental influences, this work is important for uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying the missing heritability of complex traits and human diseases. Importantly, this research will also shed light on how animals adapt to dynamic environments—a pressing challenge in the face of accelerating climate change.

See Google Scholar for a complete list of publications.