Student Profile
Kristin Beima initially entered the Institute for Public Health Genetics MPH program and subsequently decided to continue her studies through the IPHG PhD program. Prior to entering the masters program, Kristin spent one year working in a genetics laboratory and three years working as laboratory manager in a molecular immunology laboratory. Kristin is highly enthusiastic about research and recognizes that the unique interdisciplinary PHG program will give her the ability to evaluate not only the scientific rigor and results of research studies, but also the many other issues associated with performing ethically and socially acceptable research. For her MPH, Kristin worked on an ecogenetics study, translated ecogenetics research into teaching materials for community outreach, and evaluated ethical issues arising within this newly emerging field with Kelly Fryer-Edwards, David Eaton, and the UW Center for Ecogenetics and Environmental Health.
Kristin has a strong interest in global health and a passion for working with vulnerable populations. In addition to her PHG coursework, the unique design of the PHG program has allowed Kristin the flexibility to complete a graduate certificate in HIV and STI research and pursue an additional graduate certificate in global health. Kristin has recently received the opportunity to spend the 2009-2010 academic year abroad in Nairobi, Kenya as one of thirty nationally recognized NIH Fogarty International Clinical Research Scholars. While overseas, she will work on a clinical trial designed to optimize pediatric treatment regimens in HIV infected infants and young children. Kristin plans to pursue her dissertation research within the field of HIV and evaluate how genetic, social, and ethical issues affect HIV outcomes in women and children.
Note: This page features a profile of one current IPHG student. Student profiles will be rotated periodically. For student profiles published in the past, see Student Profile Archive.