Ruth Lehmann, Director and President of the Whitehead Institute and MIT Biology Professor, earned her PhD at the Max Plank Institute for Biology in Tübingen, Germany. She trained at MRC's Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, UK, and previously led the Skirball Institute and chaired NYU's Cell Biology Department.
Lehmann's groundbreaking work in reproductive biology, using the fruit fly Drosophila, elucidated mechanisms governing germ cell specification, guidance, and protection. Her team discovered that localized translation of RNAs specifies germ cells, that lipids guide germ cells to the gonad, and that developmentally timed quality control of germline mitochondria ensure the next generation’s success.
Recognized with awards in genetics, developmental and cell biology, including the Vilcek Award for immigrant scientists and the Vanderbilt Prize for mentorship, Lehmann held leadership roles in several scientific societies. She is a member of the American Academy of Science, US National Academy of Sciences, European Molecular Biology Organization, and Royal Society of Sweden, holding an honorary degree from the University of Basel.
Professional position
- Director and President, Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research
- Professor, Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Subject groups
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Molecules of Life
Biochemistry and molecular biology, Cell biology (incl molecular cell biology)
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Cell Biology
Developmental biology, Genetics (excluding population genetics)
