
Katherine Wander
Associate Professor
Anthropology
Background
Kathy Wander is a biological anthropologist and epidemiologist working at the intersection of human evolutionary biology and health.
Her current research projects investigate: the immune system of human milk and its impact on maternal and child health; complex interactions between nutrition, infectious disease, and growth in early childhood; and cooperation in childcare within and between households. Her research is conducted in Africa (Tanzania, The Gambia, Nigeria), Asia (China, Bangladesh), and the South Pacific (Vanuatu) with large, collaborative teams of local and international researchers.
Her work supports graduate student training and research; interested students should email her before submitting an application.
Education
- MPH, PhD, The University of Washington
- BA, The Ohio State University
Research Interests
- Evolutionary medicine and public health
- Infectious disease and immune function
- Human nutrition, growth and development
- The optimal iron hypothesis