Biological Sciences

Kristen Gorman

Associate Professor

Office Hours(opens in new window)

Education:

  • University of Washington - BSc 
  • Simon Fraser University - PhD

Courses Taught:

  • Human Genetics (BIOL 303)
  • Genetics (BIOL 360)

Advising:

  • Pre-Physician Assistant Club

Research Interests:

  • Scoliosis
  • Complex genetic diseases
  • Comparative genetics

Research Summary:

The broad goal of Gorman Lab research is to understand the molecular mechanisms that control posture. Specifically, we study the most prevalent postural deformity, idiopathic scoliosis, to reveal the genetic and cellular physiology of postural control. Our group uses two species of laboratory fish (the guppy and the medaka) that have naturally occurring (not induced) mutations causing abnormal spinal curvature, that is similar to idiopathic scoliosis in humans.

Portrait of Kristen Gorman