The Laboratory of Genetics at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is thrilled to announce Dr. Ahna Skop as a 2026 recipient of the Bassam Z. Shakhashiri Public Science Engagement Award, a competitive award that demonstrates excellence in engaging the public in STEAM. This award is sponsored by the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation and honors the emeritus …

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Genetics Laboratory is excited to announce the recent appointment of Dr. Akihiro Ikeda as the Timothy William Trout Chair in Eye Research at the McPherson Eye Research Institute! The McPherson Eye Research Institute (MERI) participates in collaborative research and therapeutic discovery towards protecting and restoring vision. Dr. Akihiro Ikeda is a …

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Laboratory of Genetics is proud to announce that Dr. Chris Todd Hittinger has been selected as a Vilas Mid-Career Investigator Award winner, one of the university’s most prestigious campuswide honors. Supported by the Vilas Trust, this award recognizes exceptional faculty with outstanding scholarly accomplishments and strong potential for continued impactful research. …

Dr. Jake Brunkard, Assistant Professor in the Laboratory of Genetics, is featured in the latest issue of GROW magazine, where he discusses how his lab is uncovering the potential of an ancient cellular process that could benefit plants, people, and even pets. In the feature article, “Target of Opportunity”, Brunkard shares insights into how fundamental …

The Schlimgen Award is awarded annually to recognize outstanding scholarship and exceptional research performance in the Genetics program.  The award was established in memory of Genetics graduate student Katie Schlimgen, PhD 1999, by her family. During her time in the Genetics program, Katie has been described as fiercely determined and exceptionally innovative while demonstrating an …

Dr. Francisco Pelegri, Professor and Chair of the Department of Genetics at UW–Madison, was recently featured in a Q&A with eCALS, where he reflected on his experiences guiding the department and balancing his roles as a researcher, educator, and administrator. The article highlights how his leadership styles are shaped by collaboration, mentorship, and a commitment …

We are thrilled to share that Dr. Ahna Skop has been honored with the Judge’s Choice Award in the MedTech category at the 6th Annual Equalize Startups Culmination Pitch Event. The Equalize Startups event is a celebration of innovation, bringing together leaders from venture capital, industry, and academia to highlight groundbreaking ideas and entrepreneurial excellence. Dr. …

The Laboratory of Genetics is proud to announce Annika Mechelke as the recipient of this year’s Outstanding Senior Award, which recognizes exceptional achievement in academics, research, and service. Annika was chosen out of many qualified nominees, and showcases the best of what a UW Genetics student has to offer. Annika conducted her research under the …

This past spring break, department chair Dr. Francisco Pelegri, accompanied by academic advisor Claire Minor, took 19 undergraduate students to Costa Rica for the UW Banking Animal Biodiversity study abroad program. On the trip, they had the opportunity to engage directly with the country’s world-renowned ecosystems and scientific institutions. This program brought the group to …

Madison, Wisconsin – April 21st, 2025: Lab Culture Recipes, a unique cookbook and online community, brings together scientists from around the globe to share their stories, favorite recipes, and the rich cultures that shape their lives and research. More than just a cookbook, Lab Culture Recipes is a celebration of diversity and connection—highlighting the personal …