Alison Kanak

Dr. Alison Kanak is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of North Georgia's College of Science and Mathematics. Her expertise spans microbiology, virology, molecular genetics, and environmental bioremediation, with a focus on bacteriophage discovery and gene regulation. She teaches courses such as BIOL 1107K (Principles of Biology I), BIOL 3220K (Genetics), and BIOL 4626 (Virology).

• Education:
  • Ph.D., Biology, Georgia State University (2014)
  • M.S., Biology, Georgia State University (2008)
  • B.S., Applied Biology, Georgia Institute of Technology (2005)

Her research investigates novel bacteriophages from environmental samples, analyzing replication parameters, protein function, and gene regulation during lytic and lysogenic cycles. Students collaborate on bioinformatics and molecular biology projects, including phage discovery and genome annotation.

Recent publications highlight her work on phage genomics (e.g., Mycobacterium phage XianYue, Gordonia phage Amore2, Arthrobacter phage Iter) and environmental microbiology (Geotalea daltonii benzene oxidation). These studies align with her interests in microbial genetics and bioremediation.

Dr. Kanak's career at UNG includes roles as Lecturer (2016-2018), Assistant Professor (2018-2023), and Associate Professor (2023-present). She advises students in Biology and Pre-Physical Therapy programs.