Jacqueline A. Lees

Jacqueline A. Lees is a Professor of Biology and Associate Dean at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) School of Science. She serves as Associate Head of the Department of Biology and holds the Daniel K. Ludwig Professor for Cancer Research title.

• Director, MIT Stem Cell Initiative
• Member, Ludwig Center at MIT
• Co-chair, RASCALS Committee

Research Focus: Lees investigates genes regulating cancer development and progression, with emphasis on stem cell function, epigenetics (particularly PRMT5), and uveal melanoma. Her lab uses mouse and zebrafish models to study molecular mechanisms in tumor biology.

Scientific Contributions: Key work includes E2F transcription factors characterization, PRMT5-splicing axis as therapeutic target, and primary cilia's role in breast cancer stemness. Recent publications focus on drug resistance mechanisms and precision medicine applications.

• 2025: PRMT5 inhibition vulnerabilities
• 2023: BMI1 in melanocyte stem cell maintenance
• 2022: MITF deficiency in uveal melanoma

Leadership & Recognition: Lees received Human Frontier Science Program and American Leukemia Society Fellowships. She plays active roles in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at MIT.