Robert Walker
About Robert Walker
Robert Walker is a research biologist with extensive experience in genomic research and molecular biology. He has worked at the National Institutes of Health since 2006 and previously held positions at the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Michigan State University.
Work at National Institutes of Health
Robert Walker has worked at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) since 2006 as a Research Biologist in the National Cancer Institute/Center for Cancer Research. His role involves coordinating the operation of the branch's Illumina MiSeq and Genome Analyzer program. He has been instrumental in establishing the next-generation sequencing program at the Genetics Branch and has supervised personnel operating the Applied Biosystems automated capillary fluorescent sequencer. Prior to his current position, he worked at the National Human Genome Research Institute from 1995 to 2006, where he developed novel genome partitioning methods and created an amplified array-CGH method for genomic investigations.
Education and Expertise
Robert Walker studied at Michigan State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from 1981 to 1986. His academic background laid the foundation for his expertise in molecular biology and genomics. He has developed robotic solutions for high-throughput sample preparation and has routinely provided technical guidance on a broad range of molecular biology methods. His knowledge and experience in genome investigation techniques have allowed him to train numerous collaborators and visiting scientists.
Background in Fish and Wildlife Services
Before his tenure at the NIH, Robert Walker worked at the US Fish and Wildlife Service in various capacities. He served as a Biologist at the National Fish Health Research Lab from 1993 to 1995 and as a Microbiological Laboratory Technician at the California-Nevada Fish Health Center from 1990 to 1993. Additionally, he held the position of Biological Research Aid at the National Fisheries Contaminant Research Center in 1990. His work in these roles contributed to his understanding of biological research and environmental health.
Research Assistant Experience
Robert Walker gained early research experience as a Research Assistant at Michigan State University. He worked in the Department of Biochemistry from 1986 to 1987 and in the Organic Synthesis Laboratory of the Department of Chemistry from 1984 to 1985. These positions provided him with foundational skills in laboratory techniques and research methodologies, which he has applied throughout his career in various biological research settings.