Dr. Walter W. Steiner

Biography

Dr. Walter W. Steiner joined the faculty in 2004. He received his Ph.D. in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology from University of Colorado and was a postdoctoral Fellow at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center from 1998-2004.

Focus of Teaching

Dr. Walter W. Steiner currently teaches or has taught Introductory Biology, Cell Biology, Bioanalytical Techniques and laboratory, Senior Seminar, Genetics, Medical Genetics, and the History of Science.

Current Research

Dr. Walter W. Steiner’s research interests are aimed primarily at understanding the factors determining the location of recombination hot spots.  The cells of humans and other sexually reproducing organisms contain two copies of each chromosome, one from each parent. These chromosome copies, or homologs, contain similar but not always identical genes. During meiosis (the process of forming gametes), genetic information is exchanged between maternal and paternal homologs through a process called homologous recombination. Homologous recombination is essential for ensuring that each cell receives the correct number of chromosomes, and it is also a major mechanism of repairing DNA damage. When this process fails, mutations and other chromosome abnormalities can occur. Research in his lab has revealed that a number of simple nucleotide sequence motifs can create recombination hot spots. They are now characterizing several of those motifs and attempting to identify trans-acting factors required for their activity.

Current Involvement

• NULTA contract compliance officer
• Senate Academic Policy committee
• Academic Integrity Board

Educational Background

• B.S. Biology, 1991, University of California, Irvine.
• Ph.D. Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, 1998, University of Colorado, Boulder.