Julia Boughner

Professor Julia Boughner is a distinguished researcher in the Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology at the University of Saskatchewan, holding the position of Tri-Agency NSERC Leader. Her academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Biological Anthropology from the University of Toronto, followed by a Ph.D. in Anatomy from University College London. Dr. Boughner has established herself as a leading figure in evolutionary developmental biology with a specific focus on craniofacial and dental morphology.

Dr. Boughner's research interests center on understanding the coordinated development and evolution of jaws and teeth, examining how developmental timing ensures functional integration across these structures. She employs a multidisciplinary approach combining genetic analysis, statistical shape modeling, and high-resolution imaging techniques. Her laboratory leverages advanced resources including Optical Projection Tomography and access to the Canadian Light Source Synchrotron, enabling detailed morphological studies. Recent publications demonstrate her active research program with numerous 2024-2025 publications spanning developmental biology, physical anthropology, and dentistry.

• Science Communication & Public Engagement Award (2023), American Association for Anatomy
• 2022 Distinguished Graduate Mentor Award, University of Saskatchewan

Dr. Boughner maintains an active grant portfolio primarily supported by NSERC and CFI, enabling her to mentor graduate students in a supportive, inclusive lab environment. Her service contributions include editorial roles for Developmental Dynamics and JEZ-B, previous service on the American Association for Anatomy Board (2019-2022), and ongoing participation in NSERC grant evaluation (2024-2027). She is deeply committed to science outreach, organizing Café Scientifique-Saskatoon and previously co-founding one of Canada's first Café Scientifiques in Vancouver.

Her laboratory continues to investigate fundamental questions about the developmental coordination between teeth and jaws, with current research focusing on how the pace of development has evolved to ensure proper functional integration without direct tissue cross-talk. The lab actively recruits students interested in studying gene expression in primate dental development using cutting-edge methodologies.