Laufey Ámundadóttir

Icelandic-American cancer researcher

Laufey Ámundadóttir is an Icelandic-American cancer researcher known for her work in the field of genetic epidemiology and cancer genetics. She is a senior investigator at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), where she leads research efforts to understand the genetic basis of cancer susceptibility.

Early life and education

Laufey Ámundadóttir was born in Iceland. She pursued her undergraduate studies in biochemistry at the University of Iceland, where she developed a keen interest in the genetic factors influencing human health. She later moved to the United States to further her education, earning a Ph.D. in molecular biology from the University of California, San Francisco.

Career

Laufey Ámundadóttir

After completing her doctoral studies, Ámundadóttir joined the National Cancer Institute as a postdoctoral fellow. Her research focused on identifying genetic variants associated with increased risk of cancer. She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a senior investigator and leading her own research group.

Ámundadóttir's work has significantly contributed to the understanding of the genetic architecture of cancer. Her research has identified several genetic loci associated with increased susceptibility to various types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer and prostate cancer.

Research contributions

Ámundadóttir's research employs a combination of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and functional genomics to uncover the genetic underpinnings of cancer. Her team has been instrumental in identifying novel genetic markers that can be used to predict cancer risk and inform personalized treatment strategies.

One of her notable contributions is the identification of genetic variants in the BRCA2 gene that are linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. This discovery has important implications for the screening and management of individuals at high risk for this disease.

Awards and recognition

Throughout her career, Ámundadóttir has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to cancer research. She is a sought-after speaker at international conferences and has published extensively in leading scientific journals.

Personal life

Ámundadóttir is known for her dedication to mentoring young scientists and fostering a collaborative research environment. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys exploring the natural beauty of Iceland and spending time with her family.

Related pages

• Cancer research
• Genetic epidemiology
• National Cancer Institute