Professor Walker’s doctoral research in the field of Behavioral Genetics examined the relative influence of genes and the environment on educationally relevant behavior. Specifically, her work focused on the respective influence of “nature” and “nurture” on behavioral traits such as academic achievement, cognitive abilities, and children's perceptions of their classroom environments. Moreover, her work explored teacher and parent perceptions of the importance of genetic and environmental influences for various aspects of behavior relevant for the field of education.

Currently, Dr. Walker's interests involve examining ways to use genomic and epigenetic research to promote healthy behavior and optimal health outcomes. Specifically, she is interested in the intersection between genomics, epigenetics, nutrition and exercise to develop research-based solutions to address the obesity epidemic in order to decrease commensurate health complications such as metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Prior to entering academia, Dr. Walker was a mutual fund Portfolio Manager at the Berger Funds in Denver, Colorado (now part of Janus Capital). Her first job after college was as a professional tennis player in Europe. Dr. Walker is married with three boys and lives in the District of Colombia.