NHGRI appoints Dr. Chris Gunter as senior advisor to the director

In this role, Dr. Gunter will advise the NHGRI director and the institute on issues and challenges associated with engaging the public about genomics and genomic medicine. Her efforts will also include working with the director in assessing the long-term impact of certain NHGRI research, training, and outreach programs. 

“Chris comes to NHGRI with tremendous experience in genomics and well-honed expertise in scientific engagement, outreach, and communications. She will be a valued advisor to me across a wide range of areas of ongoing and potential future institute programs,” said NHGRI Director Eric Green, M.D., Ph.D. 

Dr. Gunter will also join the NHGRI Division of Intramural Research in its Social and Behavioral Research Branch, heading the new Engagement Methods Unit. The unit will continue her research investigating primate social behavior and autism genetics, as well as evaluating methods of public engagement and science communication. She will work closely with the institute’s Communications and Public Liaison Branch and the Education and Community Involvement Branch. 

“We know that just providing more knowledge doesn’t change how people make decisions when they are faced with scientific issues, including genetics and genomics,” said Dr. Gunter. “We also know that a stronger evidence base needs to be established for implementation of genomic medicine, and this includes documenting, understanding, and adapting to behavior changes associated with genetics issues.”

We know that just providing more knowledge doesn’t change how people make decisions when they are faced with scientific issues, including genetics and genomics. We also know that a stronger evidence base needs to be established for implementation of genomic medicine, and this includes documenting, understanding, and adapting to behavior changes associated with genetics issues.

Dr. Gunter earned a bachelor’s degree in genetics and biochemistry from the University of Georgia and a doctoral degree in genetics and molecular biology from Emory University. She has previously served as a senior editor at Nature, director of research affairs and faculty investigator at the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, and an associate professor in the Departments of Pediatrics and Human Genetics at Emory University School of Medicine. 

Dr. Gunter has consistently been included in lists of geneticists to follow on Twitter. Her Twitter handle is @girlscientist.