Elaine Ostrander

Elaine Ostrander is a renowned geneticist and researcher in the field of canine genetics. She is best known for her significant contributions to the mapping of the canine genome, which has led to a better understanding of both canine and human health.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Elaine Ostrander was born and raised in the United States. She pursued her undergraduate studies in biology and chemistry at the University of Washington, where she developed a keen interest in genetics. She then went on to earn her Ph.D. in genetics from the Oregon Health and Science University.

Career[edit | edit source]

Following her Ph.D., Ostrander joined the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, where she began her groundbreaking work on the canine genome. Her research has been instrumental in identifying the genetic basis for many canine diseases, which has implications for understanding similar diseases in humans.

In 1996, Ostrander moved to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), where she continues her research today. She is currently the Chief of the Cancer Genetics and Comparative Genomics Branch at the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) at NIH.

Contributions to Canine Genetics[edit | edit source]

Ostrander's work has significantly advanced our understanding of the canine genome. Her research has led to the identification of genes associated with various canine diseases, including cancer, hip dysplasia, and eye diseases. This work has not only improved canine health but also has implications for human health, as many of the same genes are involved in similar human diseases.

Awards and Recognition[edit | edit source]

Ostrander's contributions to the field of genetics have been widely recognized. She has received numerous awards, including the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation Award and the Asa Mays Excellence in Canine Health Research Award.