Paul Krumpöck

Paul Krumpöck

Home: Medical University of Vienna
Host: Stanford University School of Medicine
Topic: AI-aided genetic diagnosis and therapy for hearing loss

During his stay as a visiting scholar at the Stanford University School of Medicine, Paul is conducting research as part of the Stanford Initiative to Cure Hearing Loss. More specifically, his project addresses the complex genetic underpinnings of acquired hearing loss, a major global health issue whose genetic causes remain poorly understood.

In collaboration with other research groups at Stanford and Google, he uses biomedically trained large language models to analyze vast genomic datasets with the goal of identifying novel genes responsible for hearing loss. The most promising genetic candidates identified by the AI will then be validated in the “wet lab.” Using CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, Paul and his collaborators will create mouse models to study the effects of these genes. They will assess auditory function using methods such as auditory brainstem response (ABR) measurements and examine the cellular structures of the inner ear through advanced microscopy.

This interdisciplinary approach combines the power of computational genomics with rigorous biological validation. The ultimate aim is to uncover new therapeutic targets and pave the way for gene-based therapies and personalized treatments for people with hearing loss. He is deeply grateful to the Marshall Plan Foundation for providing him with the opportunity to contribute to this cutting-edge research at the intersection of medicine and technology.