About the PI
Dr. Gennie Parkman is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Zoology within the College of Science at Weber State University. Originally from Missouri, she moved to Salt Lake City in 2014 with her husband, where she shifted her career focus from medical school to biomedical research. Dr. Parkman became fascinated with preclinical studies while working in the Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory at the University of Utah, later joining the Huntsman Cancer Institute, where she discovered her passion for melanoma research.
Leveraging her background in oncological sciences and cell and molecular biology, the Parkman Lab investigates how genes and signaling pathways cooperate to initiate and drive melanoma progression. Beyond research, Dr. Parkman is deeply committed to mentoring undergraduate scientists and fostering inclusive opportunities in STEM—particularly in the areas of cancer biology and translational research.
The Parkman Lab offers a stimulating and supportive environment for students interested in cancer genetics, molecular signaling, and hands-on scientific discovery, reflecting Weber State’s strong emphasis on undergraduate involvement and experiential learning.

Education
2017-2022
University of Utah
PhD, Oncological Sciences
MS, Clinical Investigation
Dissertation: "Genetic Silencing of AKT Induces Melanoma Cell Death"
2014-2015
University of Utah
BS, Cell & Molecular Biology
2006-2010
Rockhurst University
Major: Biochemistry
Pre-Medical Scholars Program