Innovation

Research in the Department spans a broad spectrum of cutting-edge genetics, encompassing global genomics, evolution of complex traits, single-cell multiomics, precision gene editing, and mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance, among others.

Passion

Our faculty, trainees, and staff are united by an enduring curiosity about the fundamental principles of life and a relentless drive to uncover the genetic underpinnings of health and disease.

Collaboration

Scientific discovery in the Department is deeply collaborative by design. Faculty partner across disciplines with leading experts in medicine, computational biology, engineering, and public health to tackle the most complex questions in genetics.

Impact

Our labs combine advanced technologies with biological insights to accelerate the translation of genetic knowledge in precision medicine, enhance genomic diagnostics, and train future leaders in genomic science.

Message from the Chair: Daniel J. Rader, M.D.

Welcome to the Department of Genetics at the Perelman School of Medicine (PSOM) at the University of Pennsylvania. Our 35 primary faculty members conduct cutting-edge research across a broad spectrum of genetics and genomics, including human genetics, evolutionary and population genetics, epigenetics, functional genomics, experimental model systems, RNA biology, and computational and statistical genomics. Our research ranges from fundamental biological discovery to genomic medicine and translational therapeutics. As the central hub for genetics and genomics research on campus, the Department maintains strong collaborations with clinical departments and numerous Centers and Institutes across PSOM and the University. We also provide administrative oversight for several core facilities that support research laboratories throughout the School of Medicine and affiliated institutions. Additionally, the Department plays a vital role in educating medical and graduate students, as well as training the next generation of genomic scientists.

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News

Celebrating Excellence: 2025 Tom Kadesch Prize in Genetic Research

We are proud to announce the recipient of the 2025 Tom Kadesch Prize in Genetics: Aishwarya Pawar. Aishwarya is honored for her exceptional dedication, innovation, and contributions to genetic research, reflecting the highest standards of academic achievement. The Tom Kadesch Prize in Genetic Research celebrates individuals whose work advances scientific knowledge while demonstrating leadership and service within the academic community. Please join us in congratulating this year’s honoree on this well-deserved recognition.

Celebrating Excellence: 2025 Kaushal Family Award Recipients

We are proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Kaushal Family Awards: Sarah Grandinette, Christopher Large, and Amelia Schroeder. These outstanding individuals were recognized for their excellence in research through publication, a testament to their dedication, innovation, and scholarly impact. The Kaushal Family Awards honor those who exemplify the highest standards of academic achievement and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of knowledge. Congratulations to this year’s honorees!

Dr. Arupa Ganguly Awarded 2025 Lindback Prize for Teaching Excellence

Congratulations to Arupa Ganguly, PhD, Professor in the Department of Genetics at the Perelman School of Medicine, for receiving the 2025 Christian R. & Mary F. Lindback Award for Distinguished Teaching. 

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Featured Publications

Complex genetic variation in nearly complete human genomes

Logston Lab

Exclusion-based exome sequencing in critically ill adults 18–40 years old has a 24% diagnostic rate and finds racial disparities in access to genetic testing

Penn Medicine Biobank Team

Lineage-resolved analysis of embryonic gene expression evolution in C. elegans and C. briggsae

Murray Lab

Characterization of non-coding variants associated with transcription-factor binding through ATAC-seq-defined footprint QTLs in liver

Almasy Lab

A lack of commensal microbiota influences the male reproductive tract intergenerationally in mice

Conine Lab

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