Michael Kobor

Dr. Michael Kobor is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Medicine. He also holds a professorship in the UBC Department of Medical Genetics and is affiliated with the Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics. Dr. Kobor serves as the Canada Research Chair in Social Epigenetics, the Sunny Hill BC Leadership Chair in Child Development, and is the Theme Lead for "Healthy Starts" at the BC Children's Hospital Research Institute. Additionally, he is a Senior Fellow at the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research.

Dr. Kobor's research focuses on epigenetics, particularly examining how environmental factors influence gene expression through DNA packaging mechanisms. His work spans multiple disciplines including:

• Social epigenetics and the impact of socioeconomic status on gene expression
• Mechanisms of DNA packaging and epigenetic regulation
• Effects of environmental exposures on fetal and child development
• Applications of epigenetic research to conditions such as fetal alcohol syndrome, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

His laboratory conducts interdisciplinary research that bridges basic molecular science with population health studies, exploring how lifestyle and environmental factors can impact our genetic expression. Dr. Kobor leads several major research initiatives examining the relationship between social determinants of health and biological outcomes through epigenetic mechanisms. His work has significant implications for understanding health disparities and developing interventions that address the biological embedding of social experiences.

Dr. Kobor's scientific contributions have been recognized through prestigious appointments including the Canada Research Chair and the Sunny Hill BC Leadership Chair. His research has established important connections between social factors and biological mechanisms of health and disease.

He actively collaborates with researchers across disciplines including psychologists, population health scientists, and clinicians to advance our understanding of how social and environmental factors become biologically embedded through epigenetic mechanisms. His work has significant implications for public health interventions and policies aimed at reducing health disparities.