As we have done for the last few years, the lab decided to organize a retreat this year to take some time to think about the big picture: where we are and where we are going. However, this year being the 10th anniversary of the lab, we decided to follow …

As part of our lab’s 10th anniversary celebration this year, I’m proud to unveil our new logo. It has been nearly a year in the making, so thanks to everyone who contributed ideas, feedback and criticism. In the end, we all owe thanks to Ian for the design vision and …

Last month the lab descended into the post-urban wilderness of the Toronto ravines. We got to see some pretty wildlife, and we got some nice fotos: There was plenty of time to talk science, especially during rain breaks. Gurdeep was a good sport to chat to us about transcription factors …

Unofficial campaign T-shirts are in! Thanks to Taraneh (left) for helping to design (photo credit Bob Strome). I did my PhD in Mike’s lab, and he inspired the highest standards of integrity, idealism and critical thinking. I hope California gets to take advantage!

Sometimes bioinformatics is so simple you can write it on a napkin:

I’ve recently taken over as director of the graduate program in genome biology and bioinformatics. As a graduate of an interdisciplinary graduate group myself, I think meeting like-minded students early my graduate career was invaluable to my scientific development. When it works, bringing tools, ideas and expertise from one discipline …

Sunny weather, volleyball and great discussions made the lab retreat particularly inspiring this year. This winding path to the beach remined me of the winding path of science. We also spotted some island wildlife: Another highlight was s’mores on the beach. (photo credit: Muluye Liku) Bob demonstrated some advanced technique. …

Last week the lab rekindled its long tradition of ping pong with Stephen Wright’s lab. The competition was fun and fierce, but Tyler won the day. Congratulations to all who came out, and check out the tournament webpage for the official results. The level of play in this year’s final …

To celebrate Gavin’s Masters Defense and Selma’s summer project, the lab went bowling last week. We were lucky to have a special guest lab alumnus on hand. Although Selma started strong, Alex won the day with two strikes and a spare. Honourable mentions go to Mitch and Taraneh who finished …

As I near the end of my sabbatical, I’m reflecting on my year of driving an electric car. I leased a 2014 chevy spark last summer and have been driving it for all my commuting and other trips around L.A, about 6000 miles so far. Note that this is *not* …