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Research Description:
Ken has numerous research interests in the fields of mathematical modeling and biostatistics. One current research goal is to estimate the genetic component of cancer risk from genealogical data. The Utah Population Database (UPDB) contains over 6 million genealogical records on the birth, death, and cancer status of Utah residents that provides a wealth of data for application of mathematical models. When family clusters of cancer are found over several generations, this suggests that the family may carry a genetic mutation in one of their genes that predisposes them to cancer. Mathematical models can be used to determine the excess risk to carriers of genetic mutations, and also to identify likely carriers. This information can then be used to design studies to better understand cancer inheritance.
Other research interests include methodology for analysis of microarray data, mathematical modeling of aging and carcinogenesis, and survival analysis.
Research Keywords:
biostatistics, mathematical modeling, pedigree analysis, carcinogenesis, aging, microarrays, survival analysis.