Molecular geneticist Jeffrey S. Chamberlain is internationally recognized for his work on animal models of muscular dystrophy and the basic molecular biology of dystrophin and other muscle proteins. His studies on dystrophin are original, broad in scope, and have made a major impact on the field.
Professor Chamberlain’s 1993 Nature paper reported, for the first time, the cure of the mdx mouse, a model for human Duchenne muscular dystrophy, by transgenic insertion of a full-length cDNA. This work represents a major advance in efforts to treat a devastating disease.
Professor Chamberlain has been highly involved in the University of Michigan’s Human Genome Center, serving on the executive committee and as director of the Genetic Marker Core of the Human Genome Center. A notable achievement of this core is the development of a number of highly polymorphic genetic markers on human chromosome 17 and region of the gene for inherited early onset breast cancer. These markers are useful both for gene identification and for diagnosis of an individual’s susceptibility to inherited breast cancer.
An inspiring teacher and sought-after mentor by students since his arrival on campus in 1990, Professor Chamberlain is an eloquent speaker who has the rare ability to explain complicated scientific results in a way that is understandable and even exciting to individuals without a scientific background. He challenges students to strive for more creative solutions to problems and is receptive to new avenues of research. With his productive research program and talent for providing an optimal environment for young researchers to learn and develop, Professor Chamberlain has attracted a large number of outstanding predoctoral and postdoctoral fellows.
He serves the scientific community in a myriad of ways, including working on a number of grant review committees, editing scientific journals, and participating in various scientific meetings as an invited speaker. In addition, Professor Chamberlain has devoted an extraordinary amount of time in supporting the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) by appearing on local and national television to promote public understanding of scientific research. In his role as a MDA spokesman, Professor Chamberlain represents the educational excellence and quality of research and public service that characterize the Medical School and the University.
In recognition of his important contributions to the field of human genetics, including the advances he has made in the fights against muscular dystrophy and breast cancer; his devotion to his students; and his exemplary service to the scientific community and the University, the University is pleased to bestow upon Jeffrey S. Chamberlain its Faculty Recognition Award.
