Winning Genes
Dr. Margaret A. Pericak-Vance receives a lifetime achievement award
By Robert S. Benchley
Dr. Margaret A. Pericak-Vance was cited as a leader in human genetics research and a champion in inclusivity.
M
argaret A. Pericak-Vance, Ph.D., the Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Professor of Human Genetics and director of the John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics at the Miller School, has received the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG).
Dr. Pericak-Vance was recognized as a leader in human genetics research, from mapping genes for Mendelian disorders to investigating complex disorders. She was also cited as a champion of inclusivity in research participation and for her innovative and impactful research, education and administrative work; her work has affected many fields beyond genetics, including neurology, psychiatry and ophthalmology.
“I am beyond grateful to receive my field’s highest honor,” Dr. Pericak-Vance said. “I have been extremely fortunate in the choices I have made, both in my personal and professional life. I have a wonderful family who has been tremendously supportive of the many roles I must play. I also have a career that allows me to wake up and look forward to going to work each day. I owe much of my success to my mentors, the amazing scientists and teams I have worked with, and my loving and supportive family. I always believed the whole is better than the sum of its parts, and this recognition represents a lifetime of interaction and collaboration.”
Founded in 1948, ASHG is the primary professional membership organization for human genetics specialists worldwide. It is a community of nearly 8,000 researchers, academicians, clinicians, laboratory practice professionals, genetic counselors, nurses and others with an interest in human genetics. 
