Dr. Shane K. Sarver, Director
Ph.D., Louisiana State University
M.S., Humboldt State University
B.S., Cal Poly State University
•The primary focus my research in recent years has been the application of genetics to species of conservation concern. This has included endangered species, candidate species for listing as endangered, and species impacted by hybridization and invasive species. Some examples of these species include the endangered Topeka shiner, American bison, American Dipper, smooth green snake and mountain goat.
• I also have an interest in the molecular genetics and evolution of the prion gene (PRNP). I am especially interested the application of an evolutionary paradigm to understanding the prion diseases (transmissible spongiform encephalopathies). I am particularly interested in the genetics of resistance to TSE and cross-species transmission of prions.
Dr. Cynthia M. Anderson, Associate Director
Ph.D., Montana State University
B.S., Montana State University
Forrest H. Cain, Researcher I
B.S., Black Hills State University
I have worked in the CCBR/WestCore lab for a total of eight years, three as a student, and five as an employee. I work on a wide range of projects including but not limited to DUSEL projects, wildlife forensics, undergraduate and graduate student training.
Oxana Gorbatenko, Research Assistant
B.S., Zaporizhzhya State University
• I have worked in the CCBR/WestCore lab for three years, and have worked on several projects including knotweed identification, “Metagenomics DUSEL” and “Fungi and Silver” projects.
• In addition to my regular duties, I have established and maintain Freezerworks, the lab information management system used for cataloging and long-term storage of biological samples.