Dr. Shelley Berger

Biography

Shelley L. Berger is a distinguished academic and researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, serving as the Daniel S. Och University Professor and Director of the Epigenetics Institute. She has a profound interest in understanding epigenetics, particularly the regulation of chromatin structure and function, genomic regulation, and the impact of post-translational modifications on gene expression. With a B.S. in Biology and a PhD in Cell & Molecular Biology from the University of Michigan, she has extensively contributed to the fields of transcription regulation, neuroepigenetics, and behavioral epigenetics. Her research aims to elucidate the role of chromatin structure in health and disease, particularly in cancer and aging. Berger's work has significantly influenced contemporary understandings of how histone modifications can affect gene transcription and cellular function, revealing complex interactions that dictate cell identity and function. She is also committed to mentoring emerging scientists and supports various students and postdoctoral researchers in her lab.

Research Interests