The highly anticipated annual meeting of the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) is underway, with fellow researchers and geneticists converging in Denver, Colorado from November 5 to November 9, 2024. The event not only serves as a platform to share groundbreaking research but also honors exceptional contributions within the field through its renowned professional awards program. Eight distinguished individuals are being acknowledged this year for their extraordinary achievements in genetics and genomics education, mentoring, and collaborative research aimed at benefiting society as a whole.

ASHG President, Dr. Bruce D. Gelb, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This year’s ASHG awardees are some of the most gifted researchers in human genetics and genomics, paving the way for future scientists. Their dedication, innovation, and scientific pursuits inspire us all. We congratulate each of our winners on their remarkable accomplishments.”

Lifetime Achievement Award: Honoring Legacy in Genetics

This year’s ASHG Lifetime Achievement Award is conferred upon two exemplary members: Dr. James R. Lupski and Dr. Margaret A. Pericak-Vance, both of whom have made profound contributions that have significantly advanced human genetics.

* **Dr. James R. Lupski** is recognized for his groundbreaking work in understanding the mechanisms causing structural variant mutagenesis and developing advanced approaches to interpret gene dosage effects. His leadership at Baylor College of Medicine has been pivotal in transforming the landscape of genetic research.

* **Dr. Margaret A. Pericak-Vance**, a key figure at the University of Miami, is celebrated for her impactful research in identifying genetic variants contributing to Alzheimer's disease. Her identification of APOE-4 as a significant risk factor highlights her commitment to unraveling complex genetic disorders, earning her numerous accolades in the process.

Leadership Award: Visionaries Shaping the Future

The ASHG Leadership Award honors Dr. Cynthia Morton, who has played a vital role in promoting genetics awareness and research. Her pioneering identification of HMGA2 has illuminated the link between genetics and uterine fibroids, while her research continues to focus on the genes influencing human development.

Scientific Achievement Award: Pioneering Research in Genomics

Dr. Nadav Ahituv of the University of California, San Francisco, garners the ASHG Scientific Achievement Award for his substantial contributions to genomic technologies and gene therapy. His collaborative work has opened new avenues for addressing genetic disorders, potentially revolutionizing treatment options.

Early Career Award: Emerging Leaders

Dr. Loïc Yengo from the University of Queensland is praised for his innovative research, particularly in understanding genetic variations that affect traits such as height and disease susceptibility. His proactive approach places him among the rising stars in the field of human genetics.

Advocacy Award: Promoting Inclusivity

Vence L. Bonham, Jr. receives the ASHG Advocacy Award for his tireless efforts to foster health equity and diversity within the genetics community as the acting deputy director at the NHGRI. His work emphasizes the importance of inclusive practices in advancing genetic research.

Education Award: Shaping Knowledge

Dr. Ada Hamosh is recognized for her outstanding contributions to genetics education. As a leading professor at Johns Hopkins, she has developed widely utilized educational resources that greatly benefit geneticists, healthcare providers, and patients worldwide.

Mentorship Award: Building Future Generations

Dr. Gail Jarvik of the University of Washington is awarded the ASHG Mentorship Award for her unwavering commitment to education and mentorship. Her influence extends beyond scientific research as she cultivates a supportive environment for trainees, significantly impacting their professional journeys.

These awards not only recognize exceptional individuals but also inspire the next generation of genetic researchers to push the boundaries of what is possible in the fields of human genetics and genomics. The ASHG 2024 meeting promises to be a transformative event, celebrating innovation, dedication, and a brighter future for genetic research. Don’t miss out on witnessing the brilliance in human genetics being showcased at this landmark event!