STUDENT: Erin Peck
Toxicology, PhD
Public Health Genetics Certificate Program
Education
BS in Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Advisor
David Eaton
Research
Before entering the Toxicology program at UW, Erin conducted research in a variety of disciplines, including analytical and organic chemistry, cancer biology, and human genetics. Of all of her research experiences, she found the study of complex diseases – those which involve both genetic and environmental factors – to be the most compelling. Erin is interested in better understanding the role of genes, environmental factors, and gene-environment interactions in human disease. In addition to her PhD in toxicology, she is also pursuing a certificate in Public Health Genetics. In her dissertation project, Erin is investigating the potential link between a plant toxin (Aristolochic acid, contained in the seeds of the Aristolochia plant) and endemic (Balkan) nephropathy (EN). This disease is thought to be environmentally induced but also genetically influenced. Erin and her colleagues hypothesize that dietary exposure via contaminated wheat grain leads to the development of EN. In her project, she is using both molecular and epidemiologic techniques to explore this hypothesis. This work has important public health implications: should aristolochic acid play a major role in EN disease susceptibility, public health intervention may allow for the elimination of this disease.
Extracurricular Interests
Ultimate Frisbee, hiking, biking, racquetball, volunteering, watching Carolina basketball, singing karaoke
