Team

Meet Our Experts

Our Dean – Dr. Lara Varden

Dr. Lara Varden is a leading expert in genomics, epigenetics, and functional medicine, with a distinguished career dedicated to advancing Precision Wellness. With a deep understanding of the genetic and epigenetic factors that influence health, Dr. Varden has developed innovative approaches to optimize patient outcomes through precision medicine. Her work in functional medicine integrates bleeding-edge research with practical applications, allowing her to tailor health strategies that address the root causes of disease rather than just symptoms.  

As the Dean of The DNA University, Dr. Varden is committed to educating the next generation of healthcare professionals on the importance of genetic insights in transforming patient care. With a strong academic and research background, Dr. Varden continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in Precision Wellness. 

Leadership Role

Dr. Lara Varden’s vision for DNA-U is rooted in her commitment to advancing the field of Precision Wellness through innovative education. She believes that the future of medicine lies in understanding the unique genetic makeup of each individual, and DNA-U is the platform where this vision comes to life. Dr. Varden’s approach to education is highly integrative, blending bleeding-edge scientific research with practical, real-world applications.

Expertise

With a strong academic background and numerous publications in top-tier journals, Dr. Varden has significantly contributed to the understanding of how genetic and environmental factors influence health outcomes. Her work has been instrumental in advancing the application of personalized medicine, helping to tailor healthcare strategies to individual genetic profiles.  

As an influential thought leader, Dr. Varden continues to drive innovation in the field, shaping the future of healthcare through her commitment to integrating bleeding-edge research into practical health solutions.

Clinician Content Leaders

Dr. Krista Kostroman

Dr. Krista Kostroman is the Chief Science Officer at The DNA Company, where she oversees all scientific research and product development. With a background in naturopathic medicine, Dr. Kostroman bridges the gap between traditional medicine and cutting-edge genomics, ensuring that our products are both scientifically robust and holistically beneficial.

Lynn Angel

Lynn Angel is a Certified Functional Genomics Practitioner, Functional Bloodwork Specialist, and Functional Health Therapist, specializing in heavy metal toxicity. After her career as a renowned chef in South Africa was cut short by mercury and lead poisoning, Lynn recovered her health and dedicated herself to functional health. She provides personalized care based on genetic blueprints, focusing on detoxification and lifestyle changes. Passionate about helping others achieve vitality and longevity, Lynn combines cutting-edge science with compassionate care, guiding her clients toward optimal health. Outside of work, she enjoys travel and culinary exploration.

Kashif Khan

Kashif Khan is one of the visionary founders behind the creation of The DNA Company Canada, where he pioneered the integration of advanced genomic science into personalized healthcare. With a background in biotechnology and an unwavering passion for individualized wellness, Kashif laid the foundation for a company that has transformed the way people understand their health at a genetic level. His ground-breaking work in functional genomics set the stage for helping thousands of individuals unlock the true potential of their DNA.

Dr. Stephanie Nielsen

Dr. Stephanie Nielsen is a leader in food-based medicine, initially earning her Doctor of Pharmacy to heal through pharmaceuticals. After battling cancer at 21 that didn’t respond to medication, she turned to natural remedies and healed herself, realizing the balance between natural and Western medicine. After a decade in Big Pharma conducting clinical studies, she shifted to her passion for folk medicine and became certified in clinical nutrition, functional genomics, and BHRT. She now focuses on auto-immunity, hormone health, and nutrigenomics through her program, Wishing You Wellness.

Justin Harris, CFGP

Justin Harris is a Functional Genomics Practitioner, Primal Health Coach, Certified Nutritionist, and Strength and Conditioning Coach (ISSA), specializing in personalized health strategies. With expertise in functional genomics, he tailors nutrition, fitness, and lifestyle plans based on individual genetic profiles. His coaching draws on evolutionary biology and ancestral health, emphasizing natural behaviors like sun exposure, toxin avoidance, and physical activity. Justin leverages his background in the supplement industry and fitness to optimize fat burning, muscle building, and inflammation reduction for his clients.

Dr. Lachlan Crawford

Dr. Crawford earned her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine and holds a certificate in Contemplative Psychotherapy from the Nalanda Institute of Contemplative Science. She completed advanced fellowship training in Integrative Psychiatry with Dr. James Greenblatt, MD, and now serves as faculty at Psychiatry Redefined. She also sits on the board of the Psychiatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians (PsychANP).

She is the Director of Integrative Medicine at Monte Nido Walden, an inpatient and residential treatment center in Massachusetts, and Associate Dean of Students at DNA University with The DNA Company.