Colin Shepherd

Fios Genomics
Colin Shepherd
Colin began his career with a BSc (Hons) degree in Biochemistry and then a PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology, both obtained from the University of Glasgow, UK. Colin is now Fios Genomics‘ Scientific Editor, based in Edinburgh, Scotland. Utilising his skills and experience in molecular biology and genetic research to enhance the evaluation of client genomics data, provide biological insight and draw reasoned conclusions. Responsible for the overall quality management, scientific integrity, coordination and delivery of client reports. Experienced in all aspects of scientific research, including: execution of experiments, analysis and interpretation of data, publication in high-impact journals and delivery of oral presentations to a variety of audiences. Skilled in the editing and reviewing of scientific material.

Articles by Colin Shepherd

Weight scales represent weighing up the pros and cons of crispr cas9

Pros and Cons of CRISPR: Simple Tips for Weighing Up CRISPR for Genome Editing

While CRISPR offers vast applications in disease research and drug target identification, it’s not always the optimal choice for every scenario. Explore the main advantages and challenges of using CRISPR-Cas9 to determine if it’s the right fit for your project.

Quantifying Allele-Specific Gene Expression

Quantifying Allele-Specific Gene Expression Using PCR-Based Methods

Allele-specific expression can occur for various biological reasons, such as gene imprinting, or differential transcription caused by mutations, or single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), or epigenetic alterations. Traditional end-point RT-PCR or qRT-PCR-based methods only detect overall levels of mRNA expression from a given gene rather than mRNA transcripts originating from individuals. If your project requires more…

How to perform cell synchronization in specific cell cycle phases

How to perform cell synchronization in specific cell cycle phases

The cell cycle has been very well documented over the years because of its dysregulation in diseases such as cancer. Many different processes contribute to cell growth and replication, which is ultimately controlled by a series of tightly controlled cell cycle phases. For some areas of research, especially within drug discovery and cancer research, cell synchronization in…

SNPs eQTL

Investigating an Expression Quantitative Trait Locus (eQTL)

Thousands upon thousands of genetic variants are now associated with every disease and trait you can possibly think of. Such traits range from cancers to blood pressure, intelligence, height, weight… and many more! This is largely because of the advent of genome-wide association studies (GWAS). However, the vast majority of genetic loci associated with these traits are…

GWAS

How to Follow up on a GWAS (Genome-Wide Association Study)

So, the genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for your disease of interest was published, and it has thrown up some very interesting associations. However, at this stage, bear in mind that this is only an association. Your project is to provide the link between the GWAS single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) and pathological changes. Where do…

first experiments

How to Approach your First Experiments as a New PhD Student

For many students, a PhD project is the first opportunity to really sink your teeth into your very own research project over a long period of time. This initial period is exciting but can also be a little daunting. Where do you begin? How do you actually design your first experiments? I mean, what are…