Kristin
Fenker, phd
Science Writer & Health Communicator
A BIT ABOUT ME
I'm a geneticist and writer with a passion for connecting people to science.
For nearly 15 years, I've translated complex research into resources that help people understand genetics, navigate complex decisions, and feel more confident asking questions. My overall goal is to create audience-tailored resources that are scientifically accurate, accessible, and genuinely useful.
WHO I WRITE FOR
The same genetics topic can require a completely different approach depending on who's using the materials.
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High school biology student? Let's make something that's fun, engaging, and connected to the world. (Also, shhh, we'll likely hit some required science standards, too.)
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Health care patient or family member? Let's get you something that's clear and compassionate. Your big questions answered up front, you can return to learn more as things settle down.
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Busy clinician? How do straightforward, evidence-based resources that support conversations and decision-making sound?
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The public? Well, that's not one audience. Resources can span from fun and informative, to balanced, inclusive, and transparent and trust-building.
WHAT I WRITE
My work includes patient education, clinician education, decision aids, informed consent materials, websites, videos, toolkits, and other communication resources.
WHO I WORK WITH
My favorite way to design resources is together. I've collaborated with researchers, health care providers, patients, educators, instructional designers, artists, and community members to create educational materials that are thoughtfully designed and centered on the people who use them.
When I’m not working, you can find me watching wildlife, listening to music, or exploring Salt Lake City with my rescued greyhound, old "Mellow Murph."
skills
Broad foundation in science & health
Ability to dive into scientific literature
Translation of complex science
Data visualization
Co-creation with diverse audiences
Visual thinker
PORTFOLIO
 Opioids and the Physiology of ToleranceInteractive Audience: high school |  How Viruses WorkInteractive scroller Audience: public |  Deciphering the DataWebpage & interactive graphs Audience: high school |
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 HemophiliaWebpage Audience: high school |  Lessons Learned from Past OutbreaksVideo Audience: public |  Behind the PodiumBlog, guest post Audience: scientists |
professional overview
2018-PRESENT
Science Writer
Genetic Science Learning Center (GSLC)
For over five years, I've been one of the main writers for the learn.genetics website, covering science and health topics for our 16 million annual visitors. That role expanded in 2020, and I became the Science Content Lead on precision medicine-related materials that the GSLC produces through a partnership with the NIH All of Us Research Program. Now it's 2023, and I'm taking on the fun challenge of being the GSLC's Science and Writing Team Lead.
2011-2018
PhD Human Genetics
University of Utah, Stanfield Lab
I used a variety of genetics and molecular techniques to explore how C. elegans sperm cells respond to signals from the outside world. Yes, that's right, I devoted seven years of my life to studying worm sperm! These beautiful and unique cells have a lot to teach us, even beyond reproductive biology.
2009-2010
Research Certificate in Biotechnology
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
2011
Eco-explorer
Utah's Hogle Zoo
I donned an amazing safari vest and led educational experiences that focused on conservation messaging and the importance of sustainability.
2008-2010
R&D Communications Intern
Dow AgroSciences
Worked with scientists and R&D leaders to communicate about research. Wrote internal news articles, press releases, and helped design and script company tours.
2005-2009