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Team Members

Licensed Genetic Counselor and Research Study Coordinator
Emily graduated from the University of St. Thomas with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology. She went on to earn her master’s degree in Human Genetics from Sarah Lawrence College. Prior to working at the Ocular Genomics Institute, she worked as a pediatric genetic counselor at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Emily joined the OGI in 2011, where she provides risk assessment and genetic counseling services to families with inherited retinal dystrophies. She also serves as the study coordinator for the research study of molecular genetics of inherited retinal dystrophies.
Contact Information:
Phone: 617-573-6902
Genetic Counseling Assistant
Netra Bellur-Modur joined the OGI in December of 2018 as a Genetic Counseling Assistant. She works with the genetic counselors to facilitate clinical workflow of patients with inherited vision conditions and is a liaison between patients, physicians, health insurance providers and genetic testing laboratories. She has prior experience in scientific research, working as a research assistant subsequent to her Master’s degrees in Chemistry and Biochemistry. After taking time off to focus on family she has returned to the work force and is on course towards establishing a career in patient care and coordination. During her hiatus she worked part time as an elementary school educator, volunteered at non-profit organizations and was actively engaged in continuing education programs with courses completed in human anatomy, physiology, genetics and more in the pipeline.

Licensed Genetic Counselor
Kaitlin (Kait) graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Bachelors of Science in Allied Health Science and minor in Business Administration. She received her master’s degree in Genetic Counseling at Boston University School of Medicine. Prior to attending graduate school, Kait worked at the OGI as a genetic counseling assistant. Kait is excited to return to Mass. Eye and Ear as a genetic counselor focusing on providing risk assessments and counseling services to patients and families affected by inherited retinal disorders.
Kaitlin_O'Connell@meei.harvard.edu
Genetic Counselor
Simmons graduated from Bates College with a Bachelors in biochemistry and a minor in Spanish. He received his master’s degree in Genetic Counseling at the Boston University School of Medicine. Prior to getting his Genetic Counseling degree, he worked in Dr. Wiggs’ lab at the OGI as a laboratory technician. Simmons is happy to be back at Mass. Eye and Ear to provide patients and families counseling and risk assessments related to inherited retinal disorders.
JBorchert@meei.harvard.edu