The Choksi lab investigates the mechanisms governing airway stem cell differentiation during formation of the respiratory epithelium. A central focus of the lab is multiciliated cell differentiation. These specialized epithelial cells defend the lung against inhaled pathogens through coordinated beating beating of hundreds of cilia. We use a combination of mouse genetics, single-cell technologies, and advanced microscopy to define the molecular and cellular principles that drive multiciliated cell specialization. Ultimately, we aim to leverage these insights to develop therapeutic strategies for patients with respiratory disease.