Trained as a neuroscientist, Dr. Tanner received her doctoral degree from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) in 1998 for her work investigating changes in sensory neuron physiology and temporal coding following nerve injury. During her doctoral years, Dr. Tanner was also actively involved in science teaching and learning as a participant in partnerships with local K-12 educators through the UCSF Science & Health Education Partnership (SEP).