The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) proudly introduces the new class of Human Genetics Scholars for the period of 2024-2026. These distinguished trainees and early career researchers were welcomed to the fold this August, ahead of the upcoming ASHG annual meeting, in recognition of their remarkable research accomplishments and their unwavering commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fields of human genetics and genomics.

The Human Genetics Scholars Initiative, launched in 2019 with generous support from organizations like the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), Biogen, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Merck & Co., and Roche, aims to cultivate the next generation of genetic researchers. Scholars benefit from engaging with esteemed leaders within the society, while also receiving vital mentorship and professional development opportunities.

This cohort of scholars will participate in the ASHG annual meeting, contributing their insights through platform talks and poster presentations. Here are the eight standout scholars you need to know:

1. Amber M. Abram, University of Michigan

Abram’s pioneering research focuses on how genetic counselors can deliver equitable healthcare to incarcerated individuals. Her work, titled "Improving Access to High-Quality Healthcare for Incarcerated Patients: The Role of the Genetic Counselor," will be showcased during a key poster session.

2. Kynon J. Benjamin, PhD, Lieber Institute for Brain Development

With an impressive background in drug development and bioinformatics for Angelman syndrome, Benjamin will co-moderate a compelling discussion on inclusion in genetics while also presenting a poster on molecular QTL mapping innovations.

3. Razaq Durodoye, Case Western Reserve University

Durodoye is dedicated to uncovering the genetic underpinnings of Alzheimer’s disease and addressing health disparities faced by minoritized groups, sharing insights through a poster presentation on APOE4-associated Alzheimer’s disease.

4. Tania Fabo, Stanford University

Exploring gene-environment interactions in colorectal cancer through cutting-edge genomic techniques, Fabo is a passionate advocate for diversity in medicine. Her groundbreaking research will be part of a significant platform talk.

5. Gabrielle Ferra, University of Washington

Ferra’s work on the CYP2D6 pharmacogene seeks to revolutionize precision medicine, aiming for better healthcare outcomes. Her findings will be featured in a poster discussion on pharmacogenomics.

6. JP Flores, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Investigating the effects of environmental stress on chromatin structure, Flores combines innovative scientific inquiry with social justice advocacy in his presentation titled "Hyperosmotic Stress Induces Complete Rewiring of Chromatin Interactions."

7. Renée Fonseca, University of Chicago

Fonseca is developing new methodologies to enhance the accuracy of polygenic scores across diverse populations. Her poster presentational work aims to improve disease risk prediction and address disparities.

8. Esteban Vazquez-Hidalgo, PhD, Case Western Reserve University

A postdoctoral scholar with a focus on genetic variation and gene expression, Vazquez-Hidalgo is also a staunch advocate for supporting underrepresented students in science. He will present his findings on allele-specific gene expression across diverse populations.

The ASHG annual meeting promises to be a monumental opportunity for these scholars to shine, making impactful contributions to our understanding of human genetics while inspiring future generations in a quickly evolving field.

Stay tuned for exciting updates from the ASHG annual meeting and witness how these scholars are set to reshape the landscape of genetics!