The aims of the group are to use a multi-omic approach to understand the functional consequences of risk loci for autoimmune disease.  The primary focus of the group focuses is on the autoimmune disease, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).  SLE is a unique autoimmune disease in that any organ in the body can be targeted.  It primarily affects young women, particularly those who have non-European ancestry.  The disease involves abnormalities of both the innate and adaptive immune systems and has a strong genetic component.