Graham McVicker

Graham McVicker, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in the Laboratory of Genetics. Promoted to Associate Professor in April 2023, he leads the McVicker Laboratory which focuses on understanding how human genetic variation influences gene regulation, particularly non-coding variants. His research bridges computational and experimental approaches to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying complex human diseases.

McVicker's educational background includes a BSc in Computer Science from the University of British Columbia, a PhD in Genome Sciences from the University of Washington, and postdoctoral training at the University of Chicago and Stanford University. His interdisciplinary expertise combines computer science with genomics to develop innovative approaches for studying genetic variation.

His research interests center on human genetic variation, gene regulation, and non-coding variants. The McVicker laboratory employs a three-pronged approach: analyzing natural genetic variation, conducting genome perturbations using CRISPR technologies, and developing computational methods including machine learning algorithms. His work has significant implications for understanding the genetic basis of complex diseases including autoimmune conditions, cancer, and neurological disorders.

Analysis of McVicker's recent publications reveals a strong focus on CRISPR-based screening methods, multi-omic integration, and machine learning applications in genomics. His research consistently bridges computational and experimental approaches, with particular emphasis on understanding enhancer function, quantitative trait loci mapping, and the regulatory consequences of genetic variation across different cell types.

Awards and Distinctions:

• National Human Genome Research Institute Genomic Innovator Award (2021)
• Natural Science and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Postdoctoral Fellowship (PGS-D2, 2007)
• Natural Science and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Postdoctoral Fellowship (PGS-M, 2005)

McVicker's laboratory has received significant grant support including a $2.85 million NHGRI Genomic Innovator Award. His research has been funded by organizations including Padres Pedal the Cause, which awarded multiple cancer research grants to Salk researchers including McVicker in 2018. The McVicker Lab actively collaborates with other research groups at Salk and beyond to investigate the molecular basis of disease through genetic variation.