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Brigham and Women’s Hospital geneticist wins Breakthrough Prize
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Stephen J. Elledge, PhD, the Gregor Mendel professor of genetics and medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, received the Breakthrough Prize in recognition of his contributions in multiple aspects of biology.
Elledge’s work has improved the understanding of critical mechanisms in cancer growth, cell division, cell aging, and protein breakdown and recycling.
“I’m truly honored to receive the Breakthrough Prize,” Elledge said in a press release. “It is deeply gratifying to see the profound impact that basic research can have, not only in promoting scientific knowledge but also in improving human health.”
The Breakthrough Prize — which recognizes paradigm-shifting discoveries in physics, mathematics and the life sciences — includes a $3 million award for each recipient. Elledge plans to put much of his award toward philanthropic causes, including efforts to promote secondary and higher education with an emphasis on science.
Elledge discovered the process by which cells sense DNA damage and initiate self-repair. He also has used basic math principles to design technologies that analyze gene databases to identify candidate genes that may be involved in cancer and autoimmune disorders.
“Stephen’s work toward elucidating the way cells sense DNA damage and initiate self-repair is breathtaking in its scope and elegance,” Barbara J. McNeil, MD, PhD, acting dean of the Harvard Medical School, said in the release. “His passion for discovery, his curiosity and creativity embody the spirit of Harvard Medical School and the noblest traditions in scientific thought and inquiry. This award is a testament to that.”