The U-M Medical School Department of Human Genetics was established at the University of Michigan in 1956 and is recognized as the first dedicated human genetics department in the USA. James V. Neel MD PhD, initially hired to direct the hospital Heredity Clinic, petitioned the Medical School to establish an academic, basic science department that would be an international leader in this nascent field. Dr. Neel chaired the Department for 25 years (1956-1984). He recruited faculty with a broad definition of research in human genetics, which ultimately included viral and bacterial genetics, model organism genetics, somatic cell genetics, familial genetics, and population genetics.

After a period of interim chairs that concluded with Dr. Miriam Meisler PhD (1986-1987), Thomas D. Gelehrter, MD was appointed as permanent Chair. During his 17-year term (1987-2004), Dr. Gelehrter expanded the Department with faculty recruitments in molecular genetics, transcriptional regulation, transgenic technology, mouse models of human disease, medical genetics, gene therapy, population genetics, and statistical genetics. During this time, the Department extended the training of PhD and Masters degree students in basic genetics science, and established a Masters degree program in Genetic Counseling.

The nearly 70-year history of the Department of Human Genetics is, in many ways, a microcosm of the fields of human genetics, genomics, and genetics education. Beginning as a cluster of basic scientists on the margins of human health care, the Department has expanded in faculty numbers and research breadth. Strong, stable, and forward-looking leadership – combined with support and investment from the University and Medical School – has yielded a vibrant and innovative community of teachers and scientists.

See how our department has evolved over the years.