Karlie Edwards

Hometown: Bonney Lake, Washington, USA
Program: PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

What attracted you to your field?

My background is in chemistry, and I’ve always been drawn to its intersection with human health. Biochemistry and molecular biology allow me to explore human biology at a molecular and mechanistic level — understanding not just what happens in the body, but how and why it happens.

What is your favourite moment from your time at UBC?

I don’t have one single moment that stands out, but I look back on my time at UBC with a lot of gratitude. From seminars and trainee lunches to pumpkin carving and coffee breaks with my cohort, it’s been a collection of small, meaningful moments that have shaped an incredibly positive experience.

What is one piece of advice you have for students entering your program?

Take time to enjoy the experience and make the most of the opportunities around you. Graduate school is a truly unique time — an environment unlike any other, where learning, curiosity and collaboration are all encouraged. A PhD will always have its challenges, but attending seminars, department events and connecting with peers can make the journey both rewarding and inspiring.

Tell us about your research.

My research focuses on DNA methylation — a chemical tag on DNA that doesn’t change the genetic code but can influence how genes are turned on or off. These marks can shift with development and experience. I study DNA methylation in children to understand how early-life environments can shape biology and influence health across the lifespan. Understanding how these experiences shape health can help us develop better prevention and treatment options, as well as improve care.  

What’s next for you?

I’m continuing as a postdoctoral fellow in the Kobor Lab, wrapping up projects and collaborations from my PhD while expanding my skill set in the wet lab. I’m involved in processing samples, running tests and exploring complementary approaches, including proteomics (study of proteins) and transcriptomics (study of gene activity), to better understand how different layers of biology interact with DNA methylation.