Stowers Institute's Jerry Workman Elected to National Academy of Sciences
On May 1, 2025, Jerry Workman, Ph.D., an esteemed Investigator at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, achieved one of the highest accolades in the scientific community by being elected to the National Academy of Sciences. This prestigious recognition marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career, acknowledging his remarkable contributions and leadership in the nuanced field of gene regulation.
Dr. Workman has garnered international acclaim for his pioneering studies focusing on histones, the crucial proteins responsible for DNA packaging within cells. His research has been transformative in illuminating the mechanisms by which cells introduce specific chemical modifications to histones, thereby regulating gene expression with precision. His groundbreaking work has provided critical insights into how changes in gene expression can have profound implications for human health and disease management.
Alejandro Sánchez Alvarado, Ph.D., President and Chief Scientific Officer at the Stowers Institute, expressed the significance of this honor, stating, "Election to the National Academy of Sciences is one of the highest accolades in American science. This recognition is a testament to Jerry's exceptional and enduring scientific achievements, underscoring his pivotal role in advancing our understanding of gene regulation."
In addition to enriching the scientific community with his research, Dr. Workman has committed himself to nurturing the next generation of scientists. Through his role as a mentor, he has guided numerous postdoctoral researchers and graduate students, many of whom have gone on to build successful research careers. His dedication to education also extends to his position as a faculty member at the Stowers Graduate School, where he shapes the minds of future innovators.
Dr. Workman’s research has significantly enhanced our understanding of chromatin structure and its intricate functions, providing valuable insights that extend across various health challenges, including cancer. Kausik Si, Ph.D., Scientific Director at Stowers, acknowledged the breadth of Workman’s scientific contributions, emphasizing their lasting impact on fundamental biological processes.
The Stowers Institute, founded in 1994 through the generosity of Jim Stowers and his wife Virginia, is a non-profit biomedical research organization that prioritizes foundational research. Its mission revolves around uncovering life's mysteries and enhancing the quality of life through innovative approaches aimed at understanding disease causation and prevention. With a robust cadre of over 370 scientific staff members conducting various independent research programs, the institute stands at the forefront of medical discovery.
The recognition of Dr. Workman’s work by the National Academy of Sciences not only highlights his individual accomplishments but also shines a light on the invaluable research being conducted at the Stowers Institute. As a member of such a prestigious institution, Dr. Workman joins a network of distinguished scientists dedicated to harnessing knowledge for the betterment of society.
To learn more about Dr. Workman's research and the vital work being undertaken at the Stowers Institute, visit
www.stowers.org and for details regarding their graduate program, explore
www.stowers.org/gradschool.