Photo of Jonathan J. Rios, Ph.D.

Jonathan J. Rios, Ph.D.

  • DIRECTOR OF MOLECULAR GENETICS
  • Associate Professor, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development | Orthopaedic Surgery | Pediatrics

Care Philosophy

“Our team applies state-of-the-art technologies to discover genetic and cellular mechanisms of pediatric musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions. Our goal is to translate research discoveries into novel evidence-based treatment paradigms.”

Jonathan J. Rios, Ph.D.

About

Jonathan J. Rios, Ph.D., is the director of molecular genetics at Scottish Rite for Children. Dr. Rios earned his undergraduate degree from Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas, his doctorate degree from Texas A&M University in College Station, and completed a fellowship at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying pediatric musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions, with an emphasis on identifying genetic causes of rare orthopedic disorders and advancing potential treatment strategies.

Dr. Rios collaborates with clinicians to study conditions including idiopathic scoliosis, fracture healing defects and rare musculoskeletal diseases using genomics, cell-based assays and transgenic animal models. His work also includes research initiatives within the G.O.O.D. (Genomics of Orthopaedic Disorders) for Kids Program and developing pre-clinical models to better understand disease mechanisms and improve treatment for children with complex orthopedic conditions.

Research Focus Area

Molecular mechanisms of pediatric musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions.

Academic Appointment

Associate Professor, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development | Department of Orthopaedic Surgery | Pediatrics | Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center