BS in cellular and molecular biology from the University of Michigan
Past Experience
Conducted postdoctoral research as a mentored independent scientist, funded through a NCCAM/NIH K01 award in the combined areas of immunology and botanical medicine. This research was co-mentored by Gowsala Sivam, PhD, professor in the Department of Basic Sciences at Bastyr University, and Gary Elmer, PhD, a professor from the University of Washington School of Pharmacy.
Current Roles
Dr. Wenner is a research associate professor in the Department of Basic Sciences within the School of Natural Health Sciences at Bastyr University. She conducts research and co-teaches Immunology and Research Methods courses in the naturopathic medicine and herbal sciences programs. Dr. Wenner is currently the co-director and project principal investigator of a NCCAM/NIH-funded Developmental Center for CAM Research (DCRC) grant examining the anti-tumor immunopotentiating effects of Trametes versicolor, a medicinal mushroom. Dr. Wenner is also conducting research on the mechanisms of immunomodulatory effects of Echinacea purpurea and Spilanthes acmella preparations and constituents, and participates as co-investigator on other studies investigating the immunological effects of CAM therapies.
Interests
Dr. Wenner’s research interests are focused on understanding the immunomodulatory effects of botanical medicines. She is particularly interested in understanding combination effects of constituents in complex botanical preparations for the treatment of cancer. Dr. Wenner greatly enjoys teaching Immunology and serving as a research mentor to students who aspire toward a future career in CAM research. Outside of work, Dr. Wenner enjoys spending time with her two children, singing, hiking and camping, bike riding, gardening, making herbal medicines and her yoga practice.
Philosophy
Dr. Wenner’s philosophy is to teach through active learning, sharing her enthusiasm and providing real-life examples relevant to the topics she teaches and researches.
