About
Advancing hEDS Research
Welcome to The Zebra Lab!
We’re a diverse community of researchers, clinicians, innovators, and advocates committed to advancing hEDS research through targeted treatments, a clinical-grade diagnostic test, and a pioneering digital collaboratory designed to connect and empower early-career hEDS researchers.
The Zebra Lab gets its name from the medical saying, “When you hear hoofbeats, think horses, not zebras.” People with rare disorders like hEDS are the “zebras”—often overlooked or misdiagnosed. Our lab embraces this identity, working to uncover the causes of hEDS and to develop life-changing treatments for the millions affected worldwide.
Whatever your background, your contribution can help drive discovery and treatment breakthroughs. Join The Zebra Lab and be part of the solution!
Innovative Research for hEDS Care
Meet the dedicated experts driving research, care, and advocacy for hEDS.
Andie Tubbs, MSBME
Founder, BME PhD Student, Entrepreneur
Patient-scientist pursuing a PhD in Biomedical Engineering and M.S. in Engineering Management, driven to develop and bring to market therapies and diagnostic tools for hEDS.
Dr. J. Amber Jennings, PhD
Principle Investigator, Chief Grant Writer
Distinguished professor and biomedical engineer with decades of experience in smart drug delivery and biomaterials development. Awardee of over 8 million dollars in grant funding over her career.
Dr. Bernard Grisoni, PhD, MBA
Chief of Regulatory Affairs
Accomplished biomedical engineering professor and inventor with over 40 patents.
Ezzudin Abhussein, MSBME
Researcher, Doctoral Candidate in BME
Doctoral Candidate in biomedical engineering with extensive biomaterial and cell culture experience.
“Joining TZL has been a game changer for me. It’s not just a research collaboratory—it’s a dynamic, supportive community where researchers, clinicians, and advocates come together to push the boundaries of hEDS science. The mentorship and resources here have empowered me to contribute meaningfully to groundbreaking projects that could transform patient care worldwide.”
Ezzuddin Abuhussein
Doctoral Candidate