Kristin Gallik, Ph.D.
Hi There!
I am a Bioinformatics Scientist specializing in bioimage analysis. I am passionate about using open-source tools to solve image analysis problems. My career goal is to lead a team in developing new imaging and analysis pipelines to gain novel insights into biological mechanisms.
Education
I received my Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (Molecular, Cellular, Developmental, and Neurobiology) in 2022 from the University of Illinois at Chicago in Chicago, IL. During my graduate studies, I used confocal and transmission electron microscopy to elucidate cell biology mechanisms using zebrafish and C. elegans. These experiences gave me a deep appreciation for the importance of appropriate experimental design of bioimaging experiments.
Employment
In my current position as a Core Bioinformatics Scientist in the Optical Imaging Core (OIC) at the Van Andel Institute, I create and deploy bespoke image analysis pipelines for researchers at the institute. In addition to fulfilling analysis requests, I host institute workshops and give guest lectures at VAI's graduate school on image analysis.
A typical project workflow begins with a consultation on experimental design and quantification goals. We guide the researcher on selecting the appropriate imaging modality and experimental controls. During pipeline development, I maintain a scheduled check-in on project status and action items. Each project has its own GitHub repository on the OIC's GitHub account for maintaining accessible code.